Top 10 Most Viewed Podcast Episodes Ever

Introduction

In the digital age, podcasts have evolved from simple audio shows to multimedia experiences that can capture the attention of millions. Some episodes have transcended the medium entirely, becoming cultural phenomena that break the internet and spark global conversations.

This list ranks the most viewed podcast episodes ever, revealing the interviews, discussions, and moments that resonated with audiences worldwide. From controversial political interviews to mind-bending conversations about technology and the universe, these episodes represent the power of long-form conversation in our fast-paced digital world.

The top of the podcast mountain is dominated by a mix of established platforms and unexpected viral hits, proving that compelling content can come from anywhere and reach anyone.

Methodology

This ranking is based on view count data across major platforms as of January 2025. We primarily focus on YouTube view counts as the most accessible and verifiable metric, while also considering download statistics from Spotify and Apple Podcasts where available.

Data Sources:

• Official YouTube Analytics and public view counts
• Spotify for Podcasters and Apple Podcasts statistics
• Social Blade and other verified podcast analytics platforms
• Cross-referenced data from multiple sources for accuracy

Important Considerations:

• View counts change constantly as episodes continue to gain views
• Some episodes may have additional views across different platforms
• Video podcast episodes typically show higher view counts than audio-only versions
• Cultural and language barriers may affect global reach

10. The Joe Rogan Experience #1159 with Neil deGrasse Tyson

Views: 37 million
Published: September 2018
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

Neil deGrasse Tyson's appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience became one of the most educational and entertaining episodes in podcast history. The renowned astrophysicist and science communicator discussed everything from black holes to the nature of reality, making complex scientific concepts accessible to millions of viewers.

The episode's popularity stems from Tyson's ability to explain mind-bending concepts in simple terms, combined with Rogan's genuine curiosity and willingness to ask the questions that many viewers were thinking. Their discussion about the possibility of alien life and the vastness of the universe captured the imagination of audiences worldwide.

Why it went viral: The combination of scientific expertise and accessible conversation made this episode a perfect introduction to astrophysics for millions of people who might never have engaged with the subject otherwise.

9. The Joe Rogan Experience #1284 with Graham Hancock

Views: 28 million
Published: May 2019
Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes

Graham Hancock's appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience brought alternative history and archaeology to mainstream attention. The British writer and journalist discussed his controversial theories about ancient civilizations, lost technologies, and the possibility of advanced prehistoric societies.

The episode sparked intense debate within academic circles and among the general public, with Hancock presenting evidence for his theories about ancient civilizations that may have been more advanced than previously thought. The discussion covered topics ranging from the Great Pyramid of Giza to the possibility of a lost civilization that predated known history.

Why it went viral: The episode challenged conventional historical narratives and presented alternative theories that captured the imagination of viewers interested in mysteries and ancient history.

8. The Joe Rogan Experience #1555 with Alex Jones and Tim Dillon

Views: 28 million
Published: October 2020
Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes

This controversial episode featured conspiracy theorist Alex Jones alongside comedian Tim Dillon, creating a unique dynamic that combined political commentary with comedic perspective. The discussion covered various conspiracy theories and political topics, generating significant attention and debate.

The episode's high view count reflects the polarizing nature of the content and the public's fascination with conspiracy theories and alternative political perspectives. It also demonstrated the platform's ability to host diverse viewpoints, regardless of their mainstream acceptance.

Why it went viral: The controversial nature of the discussion and the combination of conspiracy theories with comedic commentary created a unique and attention-grabbing episode.

7. The Joe Rogan Experience #1368 with Edward Snowden

Views: 39 million
Published: October 2019
Duration: 2 hours 50 minutes

Edward Snowden's appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience provided a rare opportunity for the whistleblower to discuss his revelations about government surveillance programs directly with a massive audience. The episode covered Snowden's decision to leak classified information, the implications of mass surveillance, and his life in exile.

The interview was particularly significant because it allowed Snowden to explain his motivations and the broader implications of his actions in a format that reached millions of people. The discussion about privacy, government overreach, and the role of whistleblowers in democracy resonated with audiences concerned about digital privacy.

Why it went viral: The episode provided unprecedented access to one of the most significant whistleblowers in modern history, discussing topics of universal concern about privacy and government surveillance.

6. The Joe Rogan Experience #1470 with Elon Musk

Views: 34 million
Published: May 2020
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

Elon Musk's second appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience came during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and featured the Tesla CEO discussing his companies' response to the crisis, his views on artificial intelligence, and his ambitious plans for space exploration.

The episode was particularly notable for Musk's candid discussion about the challenges facing Tesla during the pandemic and his thoughts on the future of transportation and energy. His comments about artificial intelligence and the potential risks it poses to humanity generated significant discussion and debate.

Why it went viral: Musk's status as one of the world's most influential entrepreneurs, combined with his willingness to discuss controversial topics, made this episode must-watch content for millions of people.

5. The Joe Rogan Experience #2219 with Donald Trump

Views: 50+ million
Published: August 2024
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes

Donald Trump's appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience during the 2024 presidential campaign became one of the most politically significant podcast episodes ever recorded. The former president discussed his campaign, his views on current events, and his plans for a potential second term.

The episode generated massive media coverage and political debate, with Trump's comments being analyzed and discussed across all major news outlets. The interview provided Trump with a platform to reach millions of voters directly, bypassing traditional media filters.

Why it went viral: The combination of Trump's political significance, the timing during a presidential campaign, and the platform's massive reach made this episode a major political event.

4. UR Cristiano – "I Meet Mr. Beast To Break The Internet"

Views: 60 million
Published: 2023
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes

This episode of the UR Cristiano podcast featured an interview with Jimmy "Mr. Beast" Donaldson, one of YouTube's most successful creators. The discussion covered Mr. Beast's rise to fame, his philanthropic efforts, and his unique approach to content creation.

The episode's success reflects the growing crossover between different types of online content creators and the public's fascination with the behind-the-scenes stories of successful YouTubers. Mr. Beast's discussion of his charitable work and business strategies provided valuable insights for aspiring creators.

Why it went viral: The combination of two major internet personalities and the discussion of successful content creation strategies made this episode highly shareable and educational.

3. The Joe Rogan Experience #1315 with Bob Lazar and Jeremy Corbell

Views: 64 million
Published: June 2019
Duration: 2 hours 35 minutes

This episode featured Bob Lazar, who claims to have worked on reverse-engineering alien technology at Area 51, alongside filmmaker Jeremy Corbell. The discussion covered Lazar's controversial claims about his work at the secretive military base and his experiences with extraterrestrial technology.

The episode became a cultural phenomenon, bringing the topic of UFOs and government secrecy to mainstream attention. Lazar's detailed descriptions of his alleged experiences and the supporting evidence presented by Corbell captivated audiences worldwide.

Why it went viral: The episode combined elements of science fiction, government conspiracy, and personal testimony in a way that captured the public's imagination about the possibility of extraterrestrial life and government cover-ups.

2. The Joe Rogan Experience #1169 with Elon Musk

Views: 69 million
Published: September 2018
Duration: 2 hours 35 minutes

Elon Musk's first appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience became one of the most talked-about podcast episodes in history. The Tesla and SpaceX CEO discussed his companies, his vision for the future, and his personal struggles with the pressures of running multiple groundbreaking companies.

The episode was particularly notable for Musk's candid discussion about the challenges of entrepreneurship and his sometimes controversial views on various topics. His comments about artificial intelligence, space exploration, and the future of transportation generated significant discussion and debate.

Why it went viral: Musk's status as one of the world's most innovative entrepreneurs, combined with his willingness to discuss both his successes and failures, made this episode incredibly compelling for millions of viewers.

1. Thmanyah Podcast: "How to Succeed in Relationships" with Yasser Al-Huzaimi

Views: 144 million
Published: 2022
Duration: 2 hours 20 minutes

The most viewed podcast episode ever comes from the Arabic-language Thmanyah podcast, featuring relationship expert Yasser Al-Huzaimi. This episode, which includes English subtitles, discusses strategies for building successful relationships and has resonated with audiences across cultural and linguistic boundaries.

The episode's massive success demonstrates the universal appeal of relationship advice and the power of accessible content that transcends language barriers. Al-Huzaimi's practical advice and relatable examples have made this episode a go-to resource for millions of people seeking relationship guidance.

Why it went viral: The universal appeal of relationship advice, combined with high-quality subtitles and practical, actionable content, made this episode accessible and valuable to a global audience.

Summary of the Top 10 Most Viewed Podcast Episodes

Conclusion

The most viewed podcast episodes ever reveal the power of authentic conversation in our digital age. From scientific discussions that make complex topics accessible to political interviews that shape public discourse, these episodes demonstrate that long-form content can still capture the attention of millions.

What makes these episodes special isn't just their view counts, but their ability to spark conversations, challenge perspectives, and provide value to audiences worldwide. They represent the best of what podcasts can offer: deep, meaningful conversations that educate, entertain, and inspire.

As the podcast medium continues to evolve, these record-breaking episodes serve as a reminder that compelling content, regardless of language or cultural background, can reach and resonate with audiences on a global scale.

Data compiled from YouTube Analytics, Spotify for Podcasters, Apple Podcasts, and verified third-party analytics platforms as of January 2025. View counts are subject to change as episodes continue to gain views.