Band of Bros: Podcasts helped give rise to the MAHA movement

Published July 30, 2025 6:00am ET



The 2024 election showcased the power of podcasts in reaching voters, particularly with President Donald Trump’s base. Joe Rogan, as well as the likes of Theo Von, Andrew Schulz, and more, are increasingly dictating what is being debated in the halls of power, not least the Jeffrey Epstein saga. As the influence of the “podcast bros” grows, so does the increasing number of female podcasters and social media stars. But their newfound authority brings unique pitfalls and challenges. This Washington Examiner series, Band of Bros, will scrutinize the new media dynamic. Part 1 looked at the manosphere’s influence. Part 2 looked at the new wave of women podcasters. Part 3 was on a new wave of young right-wing women ahead of 2026. This part examines the role of podcasts in boosting the “Make America Healthy Again” movement.

Podcasters have played a pivotal role in the meteoric rise of the “Make America Healthy Again” agenda, spearheaded by President Donald Trump and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Podcasters such as Joe Rogan, Tucker Carlson, and Jordan Peterson have used their platforms to discuss ideas that were once outside of the mainstream, like skepticism of the childhood vaccine schedule and the downsides of artificial dyes in the food supply, but now have become pillars of federal and state health policy. 

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