The MeidasTouch Podcast has dominated the podcast charts for three months, achieving 107.3 million downloads in April—more than the combined downloads of Joe Rogan, Candace Owens, and Ben Shapiro. Founded by brothers Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas, MeidasTouch presents itself as a “pro-democracy news network,” initially gaining traction through viral videos opposing Trump. Amid declining confidence in Democratic leadership, MeidasTouch represents a push for an alternative narrative, with co-founder Ben Meiselas emphasizing their goal of reshaping public discourse. The podcast’s success reflects a shift in political media, especially in the wake of Trump’s electoral strategies.
The MeidasTouch Podcast has reached the top of the podcast charts for the third month in a row, surpassing the combined downloads of Joe Rogan, Candace Owens, and Ben Shapiro, according to data from Podscribe.
Newsweek has reached out to MeidasTouch, Rogan, and Owens for comments via email.
Why It Matters
The MeidasTouch Podcast, which has consistently ranked first since former President Donald Trump took office again in January, remains the most downloaded podcast in the nation.
Before this surge, the podcasting landscape was largely influenced by conservative and pro-Trump figures like Rogan, Shapiro, and Shawn Ryan, who frequently led the charts. Trump himself participated in several of these popular podcasts while avoiding traditional media during his 2024 presidential campaign—a tactic many believe helped him achieve his previous success.
Miguel J. Rodríguez Carrillo/Getty Images
What To Know
The MeidasTouch Podcast has maintained its top position for three months, amassing 107.3 million downloads in April, as reported by Podscribe.
The Joe Rogan Experience garnered 49.3 million downloads, while Owens’ podcast, Candace, collected 28.9 million downloads, and The Ben Shapiro Show achieved 19.1 million downloads.
MeidasTouch is a media organization established by three brothers: Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas. It is described on their website as a “pro-democracy news network,” starting with viral videos and political ads opposing Trump and supporting Democratic candidates.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Ben Meiselas remarked: “In an era of misinformation and indifference, we’ve created a community driven by truth, accountability, and fearless pro-democracy storytelling. We’re just getting started.”
Recent Podscribe data also highlights that MeidasTouch is the fastest-growing political and political-adjacent YouTube channel based on net new subscribers between January 1 and April 1.
Following Trump’s electoral success in November and the Republicans’ control of the House and Senate, the Democratic Party has been engaging in self-reflection regarding their setbacks.
Recent polling indicates that confidence in Democratic congressional leaders has fallen to an all-time low, with only 25% of respondents expressing trust in their leadership.
Some congressional members who have criticized the Trump administration have maintained voter support.
Senator Bernie Sanders, an independent from Vermont, and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a Democrat from New York, have conducted a “Fighting Oligarchy” tour across the country that has attracted large crowds.
Their rallies have drawn significant attendance, including a record turnout in Los Angeles, as many seek alternative voices of dissent against the Trump administration.
According to a recent Pew Research Center poll, the president’s approval ratings have dropped significantly across almost all demographics, currently sitting at an overall approval of 40% and disapproval of 59%.
What People Are Saying
MeidasTouch co-founder Ben Meiselas expressed in a news release: “This represents more than just a podcast success—it’s a movement. This isn’t a moment to celebrate prematurely; it’s about altering narratives and demonstrating that by overwhelming the discourse with truth and empathy, we can break through the noise.”
What Happens Next
It remains uncertain if MeidasTouch will continue to hold its leading position.