The Call Her Daddy podcast continues to dominate the U.S. podcast industry in 2026 as host Alex Cooper expands the show’s influence through major media deals, celebrity interviews, and new entertainment projects.
Originally launched in 2018, the podcast quickly became one of the most recognizable shows in digital media. What started as a bold discussion platform about dating and relationships has grown into a major interview podcast featuring celebrities, influencers, and cultural figures.
Today, the show attracts millions of listeners each week and remains one of the most talked-about podcasts in the United States.
How the Podcast Became One of the Biggest Shows in America
The Call Her Daddy podcast debuted in October 2018 when Alex Cooper and Sofia Franklyn created the show while living in New York City. The podcast gained traction quickly after its release, drawing a large audience with its unfiltered conversations and humorous take on modern relationships.
Barstool Sports acquired the podcast soon after its launch. The partnership helped push the show into the mainstream as downloads surged and social media clips began circulating widely.
Listeners soon formed a loyal fan base known as the “Daddy Gang.”
Within a short period, the podcast ranked among the most downloaded shows in the country.
Major milestones in the show’s development include:
- 2018: Podcast launched by Alex Cooper and Sofia Franklyn
- 2018: Barstool Sports acquired the show shortly after launch
- 2020: Public contract dispute led to Franklyn leaving the show
- 2021: Alex Cooper signed a major exclusive deal with Spotify
- 2024: Cooper secured a new $125 million partnership with SiriusXM
These milestones helped transform the podcast into a major media brand.
The SiriusXM Deal That Reshaped the Podcast
A major turning point for the Call Her Daddy podcast came in August 2024 when Alex Cooper signed a three-year agreement worth up to $125 million with SiriusXM.
The deal represented one of the largest podcast contracts ever signed by a female creator.
The partnership shifted distribution and advertising responsibilities to SiriusXM after the show spent several years under Spotify’s exclusive platform agreement.
Key details of the deal include:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Contract Value | Up to $125 million |
| Length | Three years |
| Platform Partner | SiriusXM |
| Previous Exclusive Platform | Spotify |
| Partnership Start | 2025 |
The agreement also allows Cooper to expand her broader media projects beyond the podcast.
How the Podcast’s Content Has Evolved
While early episodes focused mainly on explicit relationship advice and dating stories, the Call Her Daddy podcast has evolved significantly in recent years.
The show now blends entertainment, lifestyle discussions, and celebrity interviews.
Recent episodes often feature conversations about:
- Mental health and personal growth
- Fame and career experiences
- Relationships and dating culture
- Viral internet moments
- Behind-the-scenes celebrity stories
The shift in tone helped the podcast reach a wider audience while maintaining its original candid style.
Episodes are released weekly and frequently generate viral clips across social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.
Renewed Attention in 2026: Sofia Franklyn’s Memoir
The podcast’s early history returned to the spotlight in 2026 after former co-host Sofia Franklyn announced a memoir.
The book, titled “Daddy Issues,” is scheduled for release on November 10, 2026. The memoir focuses on Franklyn’s experience during the dramatic 2020 contract dispute that ended her role on the podcast.
In 2020, negotiations between the hosts and Barstool Sports became public. Alex Cooper eventually agreed to continue the show under a new contract, while Franklyn exited the project.
The split created one of the most widely discussed controversies in podcast history.
Details about the upcoming memoir include:
- Book Title: Daddy Issues
- Author: Sofia Franklyn
- Release Date: November 10, 2026
- Publisher: Simon & Schuster
- Topic: Franklyn’s perspective on the breakup of the podcast partnership
The book announcement has reignited online discussions among longtime fans.
Alex Cooper’s Expanding Media Brand
Beyond the Call Her Daddy podcast, Alex Cooper has been building a broader media empire.
Her projects now include podcast networks, television productions, and brand partnerships.
The Unwell Network
Cooper launched the Unwell Network, a platform designed to produce and distribute podcasts hosted by creators and influencers.
The network focuses on lifestyle and culture content aimed at younger audiences.
Reality Television Production
Cooper is also producing a reality dating series titled “Love Overboard,” expected to premiere in 2026. The show marks her entry into television production.
Consumer Brand Ventures
In addition to media projects, Cooper introduced Unwell Hydration, a beverage brand developed for wellness-focused consumers.
These ventures show how the podcast helped establish Cooper as a major media entrepreneur.
Why the Podcast Still Dominates the Industry
Several factors explain why the Call Her Daddy podcast remains one of the most influential shows in digital audio.
Strong Online Community
Fans known as the “Daddy Gang” remain extremely active on social media and help promote episodes.
Celebrity Guest Appearances
Interviews with well-known personalities attract large audiences and media attention.
Viral Social Media Clips
Short video highlights from the podcast frequently trend online.
Authentic Personal Stories
Alex Cooper often shares personal experiences, which helps listeners connect with the show.
Together, these elements keep the podcast relevant even years after its launch.
What the Future Holds for the Podcast
The Call Her Daddy podcast shows no signs of slowing down in 2026. With a major SiriusXM partnership, expanding media projects, and continued celebrity interviews, the show remains a powerful force in the podcast industry.
Several developments could shape the next phase of the show:
- New high-profile guest interviews
- Continued growth of the Unwell Network
- Expansion into television and entertainment projects
- Increased attention surrounding Sofia Franklyn’s upcoming memoir
These developments could bring renewed attention to the podcast and its history.
The Call Her Daddy podcast continues to shape modern podcast culture, and with new headlines emerging in 2026, fans are closely watching what Alex Cooper does next. Share your thoughts about the show and join the conversation below.