Kelce Brothers Score Big with $100 Million Podcast Deal, Taking "New Heights" Global

In a strategic move that underscores the booming intersection of sports and media, NFL stars Jason and Travis Kelce have signed a lucrative deal with Amazon's podcast network, Wondery, making their popular podcast "New Heights" the centerpiece of a new podcasting initiative. This agreement, reportedly worth over $100 million, marks a significant financial achievement for the Kelce brothers, whose combined career earnings in the NFL already exceed $155 million. The announcement, made on Tuesday, reveals that Wondery will now hold exclusive ad sales and distribution rights for "New Heights," which has rapidly gained popularity among sports fans and podcast enthusiasts alike. For those subscribing to Wondery+, episodes will be available for early listening and without advertisements, enhancing the podcast's appeal in a highly competitive market. Expressing their enthusiasm, the Kelce brothers stated, "We couldn't be more excited to team up with Wondery for the next phase of 'New Heights.' We love this show and the fan base that has grown with us over the last two seasons." Their optimism reflects a recognition of the podcast's success, which has risen to notable heights; data from Edison Research indicates that "New Heights" ranked as the fourth-biggest podcast in the United States during the first quarter of 2024. The timing of this transition is particularly fortuitous as athlete-driven podcasts continue to gain traction, filling a niche that appeals to fans by blending sports commentary with personal anecdotes and insights from the athletes themselves. The Kelce brothers bring a unique dynamic to this genre, with Travis currently starring for the Kansas City Chiefs and Jason having recently retired from the Philadelphia Eagles, a dual perspective that enhances their storytelling. Adding another layer to their appeal is Travis Kelce's high-profile relationship with pop icon Taylor Swift, which has further amplified his visibility beyond the NFL. This crossover appeal is a key factor that Wondery is banking on to drive the podcast's success, as it taps into a broader audience that extends well beyond traditional football fans. In a bid to expand its reach even further, Wondery plans to translate "New Heights" into various languages, targeting international markets where the NFL is gaining traction, such as the United Kingdom and Mexico. This move aims to cultivate a global community of listeners, reinforcing the podcast's brand as a club for fans to unite around. With the Kelces' combined star power and Wondery's robust distribution capabilities, the partnership is poised to take "New Heights" to unprecedented levels of success. As the podcast embarks on its third season, the anticipation builds around what groundbreaking moments this collaboration will yield, especially as Travis continues to play an active role in the NFL. As the sports media landscape evolves, "New Heights" stands as a testament to the potential of athlete-led content in a world increasingly driven by personal connection and authenticity.