Forbes unveiled its 2026 highest-paid podcasters list. Travis and Jason Kelce landed on the list at number seven with their New Heights podcast.
What We Know: The list ranks the top 20 highest-paid podcasters of 2026. New Heights, meanwhile, earned an estimated $35 million, according to Forbes. Alex Cooper’s Call Her Daddy followed close behind at $32 million. Additionally, Taylor Swift’s August 2025 appearance on New Heights set a Guinness World Record for concurrent podcast views on YouTube.
What They Said: Forbes explained its estimates track pretax earnings tied specifically to podcast work. However, the publication excluded shows broadcast live and later syndicated. It also excluded YouTube-only “internet creator” shows.
What Remains Unclear: Forbes didn’t specify how much of the Kelces’ $35 million came from Swift’s record-breaking episode. Additionally, the publication didn’t break down live event income versus platform fees. Many artists on the list, like Amy Poehler and the SmartLess trio, earn extra income elsewhere. Whether New Heights sees similar outside revenue wasn’t addressed.
What It Means: The Kelces’ ranking cements podcasting as a serious revenue stream for athletes, which shouldn’t come as a surprise. Both Kelce brothers have turned their careers away from football into profitable enterprises. Meanwhile, Taylor Swift’s likely continued involvement continues fueling New Heights’ cultural relevance. As live events grow, expect the brothers’ earnings — and rank — to keep climbing. Especially when Travis Kelce decides he’s officially done with the NFL.
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John Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.