The Surprising Female Fans of the Manosphere

NEW YORK—

34% of listeners to popular manosphere podcasts are women, who find humor and vulnerability in hosts like Theo Von and Joe Rogan

• Women are increasingly tuning into the manosphere, a universe of male-dominated media
• They are drawn to the mix of humor, vulnerability, and honest discussions about life and relationships
• The manosphere has become a significant platform for bro-friendly hosts like Theo Von and Joe Rogan
• Women influence the bulk of household spending and are an undertapped market for podcasts
• The manosphere offers a politically adaptable, occasionally vulgar lens on the complicated times we’re living through

The growing audience of women in the manosphere

The Relatable Host

Theo Von, a mulleted dude-comedian in Nashville, has become the Barbara Walters of the manosphere, conducting laid-back interviews that sometimes turn into therapy sessions. He’s talked about drug addiction with Donald Trump, childhood trauma with mixed martial arts fighter Sean Strickland, and mental health with singer Post Malone. His mix of crass humor and heartfelt empathy has shot him to the top of the male cultural zeitgeist—and earned him a growing audience of women, too.

The Business of the Manosphere

Podcasts increasingly run on advertising revenue, and women are the ultimate audience to reach, as they influence the bulk of household spending. Many women are looking for exactly what these shows deliver: a politically adaptable, occasionally vulgar lens on the complicated times we’re living through. According to a recent study, 34% of listeners to popular manosphere podcasts are women.

The Appeal of Vulnerability

Women fans of the manosphere are drawn to the vulnerability and honesty of hosts like Theo Von and Joe Rogan. They appreciate the hosts’ willingness to discuss their personal struggles and relationships in a candid and relatable way. This approach has helped to create a sense of community and connection among women listeners, who feel like they’re part of a larger conversation.

The Future of the Manosphere

As the manosphere continues to grow and evolve, it’s likely that women will play an increasingly important role in shaping the conversation. With their influence on household spending and their appetite for honest and relatable content, women are an audience that podcasters and media companies can’t afford to ignore. The manosphere may have started as a male-dominated space, but it’s clear that women are now a vital part of its audience.