Spotify CEO Himself Steps In to Clarify Why They Have No ‘Editorial Power’ Over the Joe Rogan Experience Podcast

Not so long ago, all you could read and see in the media was the controversy surrounding the Spotify platform and UFC icon Joe Rogan. The streaming service took over the exclusive rights to Rogan’s podcast back in 2020 by shelling out a whopping $200 million. However, a certain portion of the community & media were not happy with Rogan’s content and pressured the platform to cut him loose.

But Spotify’s Head, Daniel Ek made a different choice, but it wasn’t aimed at protecting Joe Rogan. Contrary to popular belief, EK merely followed the guidelines and took actions he could take. According to a report by LA Times, in the recent Townhall meeting, he further clarified the platform’s stance and how it doesn’t have any control over the podcast.

He stated, “Spotify doesn’t approve Rogan’s guest list, they don’t look at his content until it goes up, and so they don’t have editing power. They just look at it after it’s already on the platform and remove it if it doesn’t meet guidelines.”

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Ek also clarified that Spotify is not a publisher, therefore it cannot censor or control the content users post. However, they do have the right to review the content and then decide to remove it, if it fails to follow the guidelines. But under no circumstances, the platform is willing to change alter its policies based on foreign or domestic entities.

PASADENA, CA – MARCH 24: Comedian Joe Rogan performs during his appearance at The Ice House Comedy Club on March 24, 2018 in Pasadena, California. (Photo by Michael S. Schwartz/Getty Images)

Joe Rogan has complete control over his podcast

As a part of the exclusive deal, Rogan will not be micro-managed and controlled by the platform clarified Spotify. He will oversee and execute all creative decisions while Spotify will merely take on the role of distributor. In a lengthy statement, Spotify shared all the nitty-gritty details about the deal and Rogan will continue to have full control of his show.

“From his earliest days behind the mic, Joe has been a commentator, fixture, and driving force in culture helping to lay the foundation for the podcasting renaissance we are experiencing today. While Spotify will become the exclusive distributor of JRE, Rogan will maintain full creative control over the show.”

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