Chris Kastenholz on Alex Cooper: The Unfiltered Podcast Queen

In a recent feature in OMR’s article, Christoph Kastenholz, our Co-Founder and CEO at Pulse Advertising, shared his expert insights on the phenomenal success of Alex Cooper, the driving force behind the globally acclaimed podcast “Call Her Daddy.” Cooper’s journey from a candid, intimate podcast to a comprehensive media presence has not only captivated audiences but also transformed the way content is consumed. Chris, details Cooper’s unique approach to building a dedicated community and her pioneering efforts in expanding her media influence.

Alex Cooper: Dominating the Podcast Landscape

Alex Cooper’s podcast, “Call Her Daddy,” has redefined podcasting with its unfiltered and relatable content. Starting in 2018, Cooper, along with her then-roommate Sofia Franklyn, discussed personal stories and intimate matters that quickly resonated with a wide audience. The podcast’s rapid rise led to a $60 million exclusive contract with Spotify, marking one of the highest deals ever for a female-led podcast.

“Call Her Daddy is so successful because it is completely unfiltered and you can identify with it,” Chris explained. He emphasized that Cooper’s ability to share uncensored secrets has fostered a robust community known as the “Daddy Gang.” This authenticity and relatability have been key to the podcast’s enduring popularity.

Expanding Reach: From Podcasting to Live Streaming

Cooper’s latest venture, a live streaming show during the Olympic Games titled “Watch with Alex Cooper,” aims to attract a younger, more female audience. By hosting interactive watch parties on NBC’s Peacock streaming service, Cooper engages viewers through social media questions and personalized commentary. Her debut during the German women’s soccer match against the USA highlighted her sports knowledge, stemming from her own experience as a Division I soccer player in college.

Chris sees this initiative as a strategic move: “It draws the attention of younger audiences to a format that they would not otherwise primarily focus on, while also providing online opportunities with viral moments once the event is over.”

Building a Media Empire

Beyond the Olympics, Cooper has been steadily building her own media empire. In 2023, she launched “The Unwell Network,” a platform that features top creators like Alix Earle. This network, a subsidiary of Trending—Cooper’s media company founded with her husband Matt Kaplan—aims to reach and influence Gen Z audiences. Cooper’s ability to spot and nurture talent further cements her role as a leading figure in the media industry.

Chris highlighted Cooper’s evolution: “The concept has remained the same, however – she has created a community for everyone in which she can share her genuine and authentic stories unfiltered and without judgment.”

Future Prospects: Beyond Spotify

As Cooper’s three-year exclusive deal with Spotify comes to an end, she is poised to explore new opportunities. With “Call Her Daddy” now available on platforms like Apple Podcasts and Amazon Music, Cooper is strategically expanding her reach. According to the Wall Street Journal, she aims to secure a $100 million deal with her next distribution partner, reflecting her growing influence and ambition.

Conclusion

Chris Kastenholz’s insights into Alex Cooper’s journey illuminate the impact of native content and strategic innovation in media. Cooper’s ability to connect deeply with her audience while continually evolving her content and platforms exemplifies her status as a media trailblazer. As she continues to expand her influence and inspire new audiences, Alex Cooper remains a powerful force in redefining how we engage with content in the digital age.

Read the full article here in German.