Why Left-Leaning Podcasts Are Growing While Right-Leaning Shows Stagnate
The podcasting landscape is undergoing a fascinating transformation in 2025. Left-leaning podcasts like MeidasTouch, The David Pakman Show, and I’ve Had It are experiencing notable growth, while prominent right-leaning voices such as Tucker Carlson, Patrick Bet-David, and Benny Johnson are seeing slower or stagnating growth. What’s driving this divergence? Let’s explore the key factors behind this trend.
The Appeal of Timely and Relatable Content
Left-Leaning Podcasts: Riding the Wave of Political Drama
Podcasts like MeidasTouch and The David Pakman Show have tapped into a growing appetite for progressive, anti-Trump content. The Meiselas brothers, hosts of MeidasTouch, have mastered the art of combining viral soundbites with sharp political commentary. Their ability to channel public frustration into digestible episodes has resonated deeply with their audience, particularly as high-stakes legal and political dramas dominate the news cycle.
Similarly, The David Pakman Show offers a mix of live interviews, cultural analysis, and deep dives into current events. By staying relevant to the moment and addressing issues like economic inequality, LGBT rights, and climate change, Pakman has built a loyal following that values his progressive perspective.
Meanwhile, I’ve Had It blends humor with cultural critique, offering a refreshing escape while still addressing societal issues. Its viral success on platforms like TikTok has helped it connect with younger audiences who crave authenticity and relatability.
Right-Leaning Podcasts: Struggling with Relevance
On the other side of the spectrum, right-leaning podcasts like Tucker Carlson’s show on X (formerly Twitter) have struggled to maintain momentum post-Fox News. While Carlson’s independent platform initially drew significant attention, his content often recycles familiar talking points rather than offering fresh perspectives. This has led to audience fatigue over time.
Patrick Bet-David’s Valuetainment podcast and Benny Johnson’s The Benny Show face similar challenges. Both creators have established strong followings but appear to be plateauing as their formats fail to evolve significantly. Johnson’s reliance on humor and viral content hasn’t translated into sustained growth in a saturated conservative media landscape.
Strategic Use of Social Media
Left-Leaning Podcasts: Mastering Digital Platforms
Progressive podcasts have excelled at leveraging social media to amplify their reach. For example:
MeidasTouch uses bite-sized clips on platforms like X/Twitter and Instagram to drive traffic back to full episodes.
I’ve Had It has gone viral repeatedly on TikTok, where its unfiltered humor resonates with younger audiences who dominate the platform.
This strategic use of digital tools has allowed these podcasts to grow their audiences organically while staying culturally relevant.
Right-Leaning Podcasts: Limited Innovation
While right-leaning podcasts also use social media, their strategies often appear less dynamic. Tucker Carlson’s show on X relies heavily on long-form content that isn’t optimized for platforms like TikTok or Instagram, where short, engaging clips perform best. Similarly, Patrick Bet-David’s focus on building a media empire has diluted attention from innovating his podcast format5.
Audience Shifts and Changing Demographics
Left-Leaning Podcasts: Capturing Younger Audiences
Younger generations are increasingly tuning into left-leaning podcasts that align with their values on issues like climate change, social justice, and economic reform. These shows often foster a sense of community and activism that resonates deeply with Millennials and Gen Z listeners.
For example:
MeidasTouch creates an environment where progressive listeners feel empowered during politically turbulent times.
I’ve Had It appeals to women and younger demographics through its witty take on everyday frustrations.
Right-Leaning Podcasts: Aging Audiences
In contrast, many right-leaning podcasts face challenges in attracting younger listeners. Their core audience skews older, which can limit long-term growth potential. Shows like Tucker Carlson’s often focus on traditional conservative themes that don’t always resonate with younger generations seeking more nuanced or diverse perspectives.
Format Innovation vs. Stagnation
Left-Leaning Podcasts: Experimentation Pays Off
Progressive creators are experimenting with formats that keep their content fresh and engaging:
MeidasTouch frequently releases bonus episodes tied to breaking news events, keeping listeners engaged between regular uploads.
I’ve Had It uses guest appearances from cultural icons to diversify its content while maintaining its comedic tone.
This willingness to innovate ensures these podcasts remain relevant in a crowded market.
Right-Leaning Podcasts: Reliance on Familiar Playbooks
Many conservative podcasts rely on tried-and-true formats that may feel repetitive over time. While this approach appeals to loyal followers, it limits their ability to attract new audiences or adapt to changing trends.
Conclusion: A Tale of Two Strategies
The contrasting growth trajectories of left-leaning and right-leaning podcasts reflect broader shifts in media consumption habits. Progressive shows like MeidasTouch, The David Pakman Show, and I’ve Had It thrive by staying culturally relevant, leveraging social media effectively, and appealing to younger audiences hungry for fresh perspectives. In contrast, right-leaning podcasts face stagnation as they struggle to innovate or connect with emerging demographics.
As the podcasting landscape continues to evolve in 2025, creators across the political spectrum will need to adapt their strategies if they hope to capture—and keep—the attention of an ever-changing audience.
