Success in Sound: Navigating the Best of Morbid Podcast Net Worth
Introduction
A True Crime Podcast has become a smash hit sensation almost overnight, capturing the ears and imaginations of over 24 million dedicated listeners per month. Since launching in 2020, the weekly podcast hosted by long-time friends Alaina Urquhart and Ashleigh Kelley has broken records and cultivated an enthusiastic fanbase called the “Morbid Darlings.” Morbid is a true crime podcast hosted by Alaina Urquhart and Ashleigh Kelley. Since launching in 2017, it has grown to become one of the most popular true crime podcasts. Morbid is estimated to generate over 3 million downloads per month. With this kind of reach and listenership, the show likely generates significant revenue through advertising, sponsorship deals, and merchandise sales. morbid podcast net worth between $500,000 to $1 million as of 2024.
But beyond just growing its audience, Morbid has also proven hugely lucrative for its hosts and network. This has led many fans to wonder – what is the estimated net worth of the Morbid hosts and podcast itself? Let’s take a look at how Morbid is earning and just how much-rising podcast stars Alaina and Ashleigh could be worth.
Morbid’s Beginnings
Morbid was the brainchild of Alaina Urquhart and Ashleigh Kelley, who had been friends since 3rd grade but reconnected as adults over their shared fascination with the true crime genre. Ashleigh’s experience working in the death industry contrasted with Alaina’s background in makeup, but their chemistry was undeniable. Morbid is a true crime podcast hosted by Alaina Urquhart and Ashleigh Kelley. Since launching in 2017, it has grown to become one of the most popular true crime podcasts. Morbid is estimated to generate over 3 million downloads per month. With this kind of reach and listenership, the show likely generates significant revenue through advertising, sponsorship deals, and merchandise sales. morbid podcast net worth between $500,000 to $1 million as of 2024.
After noticing a lack of respectful yet fun true crime coverage, they decided to take a comedic approach that focused on honoring victims when examining macabre stories. In May 2020, they officially launched Morbid and quickly found an audience. Positive word of mouth, excellent storytelling, and natural banter between the hosts fueled Morbid’s rise.
Within 7 months, they hit #1 in Apple Podcasts charts. By their first anniversary in 2021, Morbid was earning over 20 million downloads per month. Now halfway into their third year, Morbid gets over 1.5 million listeners per episode and is the 2nd most popular podcast worldwide. Morbid is a true crime podcast hosted by Alaina Urquhart and Ashleigh Kelley. Since launching in 2017, it has grown to become one of the most popular true crime podcasts. Morbid is estimated to generate over 3 million downloads per month. With this kind of reach and listenership, the show likely generates significant revenue through advertising, sponsorship deals, and merchandise sales. morbid podcast net worth between $500,000 to $1 million as of 2024.
Morbid’s Major Earning Potential
Initially starting independently, Morbid’s exponential growth drew the attention of major media companies. In 2021, Alaina and Ashleigh signed an exclusive deal with audio giant Wondery, which also produces top shows like Dr. Death, Dirty John, and Business Wars.
The agreement made Morbid part of the Amazon Music/Wondery podcast network, which significantly expanded its reach and revenues. Though exact financial terms weren’t disclosed, similar deals at the time were worth millions. Wondery also handles merchandising, events, and multimedia opportunities through the partnership.
Between lucrative ad spots on their shows, substantial listenership bonuses, merchandising profits, and more, experts estimate Morbid likely brings in at least $1-2 million per month currently or about $15 million annually between the show and hosts.
At Wondery’s reported ad rate of $18 per thousand listeners, Morbid’s 24 million monthly downloads alone could translate to $400,000 per month simply from ads – and that’s before extras like bonuses, merch sales, and events.
Split between the two friends, Alaina and Ashleigh are now easily netting 7 figures each from Morbid’s wild success. Their fortunes will likely keep growing as Morbid continues to set new records.
Morbid Podcast Net Worth and Sponsorship Deals
A huge revenue stream fueling podcasters’ earnings from successful shows comes from advertisements and sponsorships. Based on Morbid’s premium ad rates and massive audience, sponsors pay top dollar to get their products promoted by Alaina and Ashleigh.
Major brands like ZipRecruiter, Calm, and BestFiends have sponsored Morbid episodes. Single sponsorships can range from $10,000 for smaller podcasts up to $100,000 or more for leading shows like Morbid.
Alaina and Ashleigh also run direct ads for brands like Madison Reed, Third Love, and FabFitFun, where fans can use the hosts’ promo codes. Partnerships with Netflix to promote shows like “Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story” can also drive major money.
Between high-paying sponsors and multiple creative ad integrations per episode, advertising makes up a significant portion of Morbid’s revenue. Alaina and Ashleigh’s genuine enthusiasm when reading ads helps drive sales. Morbid is a true crime podcast hosted by Alaina Urquhart and Ashleigh Kelley. Since launching in 2017, it has grown to become one of the most popular true crime podcasts. Morbid is estimated to generate over 3 million downloads per month. With this kind of reach and listenership, the show likely generates significant revenue through advertising, sponsorship deals, and merchandise sales. morbid podcast net worth between $500,000 to $1 million as of 2024.
YouTube Earnings
While audio is still Morbid’s primary format, the show has expanded into YouTube, where advertisers pay top CPM rates. Clips from episodes, along with exclusive content, have quickly brought over 200,000 subscribers and millions of views.
By having YouTube ads run before and during their videos, Alaina and Ashleigh earn extra income from their fanbase watching on the platform. YouTube also generates additional revenue through channel memberships and Super Chats.Morbid is a true crime podcast hosted by Alaina Urquhart and Ashleigh Kelley. Since launching in 2017, it has grown to become one of the most popular true crime podcasts. Morbid is estimated to generate over 3 million downloads per month. With this kind of reach and listenership, the show likely generates significant revenue through advertising, sponsorship deals, and merchandise sales. morbid podcast net worth between $500,000 to $1 million as of 2024.
As the Morbid YouTube channel grows and uploads more content, Alaina and Ashleigh can tap into the show’s visual side. YouTube provides another lucrative avenue to earn money from their engaged following.
Paid Subscriptions Through Wondery
In addition to profits from audio ads and sponsorships, Morbid also earns from paid subscriptions. Their partnership with Wondery allowed them to be part of the Amazon-owned network’s exclusive membership tier called Wondery. Morbid is a true crime podcast hosted by Alaina Urquhart and Ashleigh Kelley. Since launching in 2017, it has grown to become one of the most popular true crime podcasts. Morbid is estimated to generate over 3 million downloads per month. With this kind of reach and listenership, the show likely generates significant revenue through advertising, sponsorship deals, and merchandise sales. morbid podcast net worth between $500,000 to $1 million as of 2024.
For $4.99 per month, Morbid fans gain early access to new episodes without any ads. Wondery+ also unlocks Morbid’s back catalog of over 150 episodes, along with other benefits. Part of the subscription revenue goes directly to Alaina and Ashleigh.
With over 20 million monthly listeners, even a low conversion rate to paid membership results in a nice bump in recurring income, thanks to Wondery’s model. Morbid listeners eager for extra content provide another valuable subscription base. Morbid is a true crime podcast hosted by Alaina Urquhart and Ashleigh Kelley. Since launching in 2017, it has grown to become one of the most popular true crime podcasts. Morbid is estimated to generate over 3 million downloads per month. With this kind of reach and listenership, the show likely generates significant revenue through advertising, sponsorship deals, and merchandise sales. morbid podcast net worth between $500,000 to $1 million as of 2024.
Lucrative Merchandising Deals
Capitalizing on their rabid fanbase, Morbid has unleashed a merchandising empire covering apparel, mugs, prints, pins, and more with their unique artwork and slogans. Items often sell out instantly, underscoring the demand.
Part of Morbid’s revenue-sharing deal with Wondery includes benefiting from its advanced merchandising, distribution, and fulfillment infrastructure. The true-crime podcast network Spreadshop handles creating, marketing, and selling Morbid’s quality merch. Morbid is a true crime podcast hosted by Alaina Urquhart and Ashleigh Kelley. Since launching in 2017, it has grown to become one of the most popular true crime podcasts. Morbid is estimated to generate over 3 million downloads per month. With this kind of reach and listenership, the show likely generates significant revenue through advertising, sponsorship deals, and merchandise sales. morbid podcast net worth between $500,000 to $1 million as of 2024.
Items like Morbid’s signature “creep peep” hoodies retail for around $60, while other apparel like t-shirts sell for $30-$40. With limited edition drops and huge volume, merch likely brings in a fortune. Their 2021 “creep peep” Christmas ugly sweaters fetched over $70 each.
Between their independent website and Amazon merch page, Morbid likely moves thousands of units per month. Alaina and Ashleigh see generous cuts from each sale adding up. Morbid is a true crime podcast hosted by Alaina Urquhart and Ashleigh Kelley. Since launching in 2017, it has grown to become one of the most popular true crime podcasts. Morbid is estimated to generate over 3 million downloads per month. With this kind of reach and listenership, the show likely generates significant revenue through advertising, sponsorship deals, and merchandise sales. morbid podcast net worth between $500,000 to $1 million as of 2024.
Cashing in on Live Shows
Transitioning a podcast to successful live events represents another major money maker. Thanks to their animated on-air chemistry, Alaina and Ashleigh built up demand to see Morbid live. VIP tickets for their events cost over $100 each for superfans.
Their 2021 live show tour sold out theaters across six U.S. cities with capacity crowds paying top dollar. In 2022, Morbid planned even more ambitious touring to keep delivering an interactive experience that extends their brand. Morbid is a true crime podcast hosted by Alaina Urquhart and Ashleigh Kelley. Since launching in 2017, it has grown to become one of the most popular true crime podcasts. Morbid is estimated to generate over 3 million downloads per month. With this kind of reach and listenership, the show likely generates significant revenue through advertising, sponsorship deals, and merchandise sales. morbid podcast net worth between $500,000 to $1 million as of 2024.
With Wondery’s support, Morbid’s live events have the potential to gross millions per tour. The hosts’ passion and humor on stage create a must-see experience that fans gladly pay for.
Millionaire Status for Alaina and Ashleigh?
Given Morbid’s soaring popularity, massive reach, and diversified revenue streams, host Alaina Urquhart and Ashleigh Kelley are now likely millionaires several times over. Exact figures aren’t public, but each could easily be worth $5-$10 million or more. Morbid is a true crime podcast hosted by Alaina Urquhart and Ashleigh Kelley. Since launching in 2017, it has grown to become one of the most popular true crime podcasts. Morbid is estimated to generate over 3 million downloads per month. With this kind of reach and listenership, the show likely generates significant revenue through advertising, sponsorship deals, and merchandise sales. morbid podcast net worth between $500,000 to $1 million as of 2024.
They’ve managed to create a podcast empire, monetizing content in nearly every way possible. With Morbid still growing at a historic pace, Alaina and Ashleigh’s net worths have the potential to rise even higher.
Of course, their focus remains on producing an entertaining show, first and foremost. But by turning their hobby into an audio juggernaut, Alaina and Ashleigh secured life-changing wealth along the way. Their passion project evolved into both a dream job and a hugely lucrative business. Hosted by Ashleigh Kelley and Alaina Urquhart, Morbid is a true crime podcast. It began in 2017 and has since expanded to rank among the most well-liked true crime podcasts. An estimated 3 million downloads of Morbid occur each month. The program probably makes a good living from sponsorship agreements, merchandise sales, and advertising with its level of listenership and reach. As of 2024, morbid podcast net worth ranges from $500,000 to $1 million.
From bargain basement beginnings, Morbid has delivered founders Alaina and Ashleigh to the upper echelons of podcast streamer earners. They exemplify how talent and chemistry can be converted into media riches.
Fans may listen first and foremost for the gripping true crime tales. But Morbid’s runaway success has also made its hosts’ bank accounts a lot less…well, morbid. Hosted by Ashleigh Kelley and Alaina Urquhart, Morbid is a true crime podcast. It began in 2017 and has since expanded to rank among the most well-liked true crime podcasts. An estimated 3 million downloads of Morbid occur each month. The program probably makes a good living from sponsorship agreements, merchandise sales, and advertising with its level of listenership and reach. As of 2024, morbid podcast net worth ranges from $500,000 to $1 million.
How Much Do Morbid’s Hosts Make Per Episode?
As hosts of the smash hit podcast Morbid, Alaina Urquhart, and Ashleigh Kelley have attracted over 24 million monthly listeners and counting. This massive audience has allowed them to generate huge income from the show. But how much exactly do the hosts make per episode of Morbid? Hosted by Ashleigh Kelley and Alaina Urquhart, Morbid is a true crime podcast. It began in 2017 and has since expanded to rank among the most well-liked true crime podcasts. An estimated 3 million downloads of Morbid occur each month. The program probably makes a good living from sponsorship agreements, merchandise sales, and advertising with its level of listenership and reach. As of 2024, morbid podcast net worth ranges from $500,000 to $1 million.
While their per-episode earnings aren’t publicly disclosed, industry experts estimate the main hosts likely take home around $30,000 – $75,000 each per podcast episode.
These estimates are based on average revenue numbers for top podcasts and factors like:
Advertising – Top podcasts can make $18-$45 per 1,000 listeners from ads. At over 1.5 million listeners per ep, Morbid likely earns $50K+ per episode from dynamic ad insertion alone.
Sponsorships – Highly sought sponsors pay $10K-$100K+ for placement in leading podcasts. Morbid likely charges near the top end.
Subscription Revenue – Getting a cut of Wondery+ membership fees adds to their podcast pay.
Bonuses – Wondery likely pays out generous episode bonuses based on performance. A bonus structure is common for top podcast deals.
When adding up these income streams, $30k-$75k per episode looks realistic based on Morbid’s premium ad rates, sponsorship demand, and massive reach. Of course, Alaina and Ashleigh have costs and split revenue with Wondery as well. Hosted by Ashleigh Kelley and Alaina Urquhart, Morbid is a true crime podcast. It began in 2017 and has since expanded to rank among the most well-liked true crime podcasts. An estimated 3 million downloads of Morbid occur each month. The program probably makes a good living from sponsorship agreements, merchandise sales, and advertising with its level of listenership and reach. As of 2024, morbid podcast net worth ranges from $500,000 to $1 million.
But the hosts’ chemistry and work ethic combine with their soaring listenership to generate huge earnings. Morbid’s episodic payouts provide an enviable income source as their audience and influence continue growing.
Factors Behind Morbid’s Runaway Success
Morbid has managed to disrupt the podcasting world and emerge as a cultural sensation. But what exactly led to the show becoming such a smash hit?
The ingredients fueling Morbid’s rise in popularity include:
Captivating Host Chemistry: Alaina and Ashleigh’s innate rapport, humor, and genuine friendship are the show’s heart. Fans love their dark banter and relatable dynamic that makes chilling stories engaging.
Smart Format: Structuring episodes to start lighter before diving deep into the macabre, plus balancing levity within heavy topics, makes the show digestible. Short episodes also cater to listeners’ shrinking attention spans.
Respect for Victims: The hosts bring nuance and humanity to cases while spotlighting injustices. This differentiates Morbid from callous true crime coverage.
Active Fan Community: Morbid has fostered a highly engaged fanbase that calls themselves the “Morbid Darlings.” Alaina and Ashleigh engage with listeners across social media, live events, patron groups, and more.
Network Partnership: Aligning with podcast giant Wondery expanded the show’s reach tremendously. Wondery’s marketing, distribution, merchandising, and bonuses accelerated growth.
Rapid Content Expansion: Morbid scaled its output quickly to keep feeding listeners’ appetite for more. Shorter “Mini Morbid” episodes and exclusive content capture new audiences.
Leveraging the podcast boom: Morbid launched just as true crime podcasts were exploding. Their quality content captured the zeitgeist and emerged as a leader in the space.
By leveraging these advantages, Morbid carved out an unlikely niche as a female-led comedy true crime show that resonates with millions. Alaina and Ashleigh created a new podcast template and are reaping the rewards. Hosted by Ashleigh Kelley and Alaina Urquhart, Morbid is a true crime podcast. It began in 2017 and has since expanded to rank among the most well-liked true crime podcasts. An estimated 3 million downloads of Morbid occur each month. The program probably makes a good living from sponsorship agreements, merchandise sales, and advertising with its level of listenership and reach. As of 2024, morbid podcast net worth ranges from $500,000 to $1 million.
Morbid Controversies and Criticisms
Of course, with runaway success comes added scrutiny. Morbid has faced some controversies and criticisms around its content approach and subjects covered.
Some take issue with Morbid’s often lighthearted, banter-filled approach toward morbid topics. Others feel Alaina and Ashleigh share too many personal anecdotes on episodes. The hosts’ treatment of certain cases has also garnered criticism.
Additionally, Morbid’s massive reach means their episodes focusing on particular culprits inevitably drive attention and even notoriety to these figures. Some argue this unintentionally glamorizes offenders and causes additional grief for victims’ families.
Alaina and Ashleigh have aimed to be more conscientious of these valid concerns and adjust their style accordingly. But like many boundary-pushing podcasts, Morbid still elicits polarized opinions on whether their presentation aligns with true crime ethics.
Regardless of controversies, though, Morbid’s ability to bond with millions of fans remains unquestionable. Alaina and Ashleigh have managed to create a distinctive media empire through their authenticity and labor of love.
Conclusion
Looking ahead, Morbid appears positioned to continue growing its brand, given the massive demand. Potential growth avenues include:
Increased touring – Morbid live shows reliably sell out major venues. Expanding tour dates could be very lucrative.
New content formats – Video elements on YouTube, episodic stories, TC documentaries, and other formats can provide fresh outlets.
Merchandising bonanza – Their online store has unlimited potential for expansion, given Morbid’s ravenous fanbase.
Wondery cross-promotion – Crossover episodes with Wondery’s stable of shows can unlock new listeners.
Global expansion – Morbid already has millions of international downloads, indicating worldwide monetization potential.
Given their early dominance in podcasting, Alaina and Ashleigh have only begun tapping Morbid’s full potential. The opportunities seem endless for these small-town friends turned media moguls and icons.