In a move that’s sure to shake up the podcasting world, Amazon’s Wondery has secured an exclusive, multi-faceted deal with NFL stars Jason and Travis Kelce for their popular podcast, New Heights. The three-year agreement, reportedly worth over $100 million, grants Wondery the exclusive rights to ad sales, distribution, and much more. This isn’t just another sports podcast deal—it’s a power play that underscores the massive potential of athlete-driven media in today’s digital landscape.
Wondery’s Winning Play
Starting with the upcoming NFL season, Wondery will control global distribution rights for all audio and video episodes of New Heights, including its entire back catalog. This means that whether you’re tuning in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, it’s Wondery pulling the strings behind the scenes. In addition, Wondery has the exclusive right to create international audio adaptations, pushing the reach of the Kelce brothers’ brand far beyond U.S. borders.
But Wondery isn’t stopping at just distribution. The deal also includes ad-free listening for Wondery+ subscribers, livestreams, and a broad range of merchandise opportunities. From t-shirts to potentially exclusive memorabilia, New Heights fans could soon be decked out in all sorts of branded gear, further solidifying the Kelce brothers as more than just football legends—they’re becoming cultural icons.
The Cultural Phenomenon of “New Heights”
New Heights isn’t just another podcast; it’s a cultural touchstone. What started as two brothers talking about life on and off the gridiron has morphed into something much bigger. From Super Bowl recaps to debates about PB&Js and UFOs, Jason and Travis Kelce have tapped into the zeitgeist, resonating with a fanbase that spans beyond just football enthusiasts. Their candid, humorous, and often insightful conversations have made the podcast a staple on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, even earning them the title of Podcast of the Year at the 2024 iHeartPodcast Awards.
Wondery’s CEO, Jen Sargent, acknowledged the podcast’s meteoric rise and its significance in today’s culture. The Kelce brothers aren’t just sports figures—they’re influencers who have the rare ability to cross over into mainstream pop culture. With Wondery’s expertise and resources, New Heights is poised to reach even greater heights (pun intended).
Beyond the Gridiron: The Kelces’ Expanding Media Empire
This Wondery deal is just the latest in a series of high-profile media ventures for the Kelce brothers. Travis Kelce, fresh off being dubbed “Taylor Swift’s boyfriend” by the tabloids, is also hosting a season of Are You Smarter Than a Celebrity? on Amazon Prime Video. Meanwhile, Jason Kelce has transitioned smoothly into a media role with ESPN’s Monday Night Countdown after his retirement from the NFL.
The Kelces are capitalizing on their success both on and off the field, and the Wondery deal only solidifies their status as media moguls. Their journey from NFL stars to podcasting pioneers is a testament to the evolving landscape of sports media, where athletes are no longer just performers but powerful content creators in their own right.
Wondery’s Power Play in the Podcasting Arena
This deal with the Kelce brothers is just another feather in Wondery’s cap, following their $80 million pact with Dax Shepard and other major podcasting deals. As the podcasting industry continues to grow, Wondery is positioning itself as a dominant player, attracting some of the biggest names in entertainment and sports.
With a diverse portfolio that includes everything from true crime to comedy to sports, Wondery is not just following trends—they’re setting them. By locking in exclusive rights to New Heights, Wondery has made it clear: the future of podcasting is in partnerships that transcend traditional media boundaries.
Conclusion: A Game-Changing Deal
In a world where content is king, the Wondery-Kelce brothers deal is a game-changer. It’s more than just a podcasting contract; it’s a blueprint for how athlete-driven media can thrive in the digital age. As Jason and Travis Kelce continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in sports media, one thing is certain—this partnership is just getting started, and we can’t wait to see where it leads.
