TIME magazine unveiled its highly anticipated "100 Best Podcasts of All Time" list on July 23, 2025, immediately igniting widespread discussion and criticism over notable omissions. Among the most prominent exclusions was "The Joe Rogan Experience," a podcast with an estimated 11 million listeners per episode, prompting questions about the criteria for inclusion on such a definitive list. The compilation, intended to highlight the medium's most innovative and influential works, has sparked a debate on what truly defines a podcast's historical importance.
According to TIME correspondent Eliana Dockterman, the selection process involved reviewing nearly two decades of podcasting history, prioritizing "influence" and "staying power" over mere popularity or celebrity status. The aim was to identify shows that "shaped their genre" and pushed the medium forward. This methodology suggests a focus on foundational and culturally impactful programs rather than those with the largest current listenership figures.
"The Joe Rogan Experience," launched in 2009, boasts billions of downloads and secured a reported $250 million multi-year deal with Spotify in 2023, making it one of the most financially successful and widely consumed podcasts globally. Despite its immense reach and commercial success, the program has also faced controversies, including accusations of spreading misinformation and past use of racial slurs. These aspects may have factored into its exclusion from a list emphasizing enduring influence and cultural contribution.
Beyond Rogan, other popular shows like "The Ben Shapiro Show" were also absent, leading some critics, such as Barrett Media, to suggest the list might lean towards "cultural cachet and ideological alignment than actual impact." This perspective highlights a divide between mainstream recognition and broad audience engagement. The immediate backlash on social media underscored the strong opinions listeners hold regarding their favorite and most impactful podcasts.
Responding to the controversy, social media commentator Trung Phan offered a nuanced view, stating: > "don’t make fun of Time’s 100 most important podcast list that doesn’t include Joe Rogan until you’ve walked a mile in the author’s shoes." This sentiment encourages a deeper understanding of the curatorial challenges involved in defining "best" or "most important" in a rapidly evolving media landscape. The debate ultimately reflects the diverse interpretations of influence and legacy within the dynamic world of podcasting.