Tech

Former CNN Anchor Don Lemon Signs Three-Year Podcast Hosting & Ad Deal With Libsyn

Published on July 30, 2026

Don Lemon, journalist, broadcaster, and former CNN anchor, has signed a three-year exclusive hosting and advertising agreement with Liberated Syndication Inc. (Libsyn) for his independent outlet, Lemon Media Network. The deal, brokered by UTA, moves Lemon’s shows from Megaphone, where they were previously hosted.

According to a press release, Libsyn will host and monetize Lemon’s flagship show, “The Don Lemon Show,” along with three companion programs: “Lemon Live at 5,” “Hot Topics” and “Lemon Drop.” The network reaches more than 10 million followers across YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Substack, Facebook, Twitch, Threads and Bluesky, with audience growth exceeding 50% over the past year, per the release.

“As ‘The Don Lemon Show’ continues to grow, partnering with Libsyn lets us bring that work to even more people across streaming platforms, and on our terms,” Lemon said in the release. “I’m excited about the reach and resources it unlocks, but most of all that it helps us keep delivering independent journalism without compromise.”

“We’re witnessing a fundamental shift in media, where trusted journalists are building direct relationships with audiences and creating sustainable businesses on their own terms,” said Brendan Monaghan, Libsyn’s CEO, in the release. Lemon framed the move similarly to The Hollywood Reporter, telling the outlet that his audience follows him “because they have become disenchanted with corporate media.”

Lemon also told The Hollywood Reporter that he plans to expand the network by adding shows from other creators covering topics outside politics, and to broaden distribution to platforms such as MSN and FAST channels. He said the current operation runs on a four-person staff supported by a mix of subscriptions, sponsorships, advertising, speaking engagements and a Substack newsletter.

Through the partnership, Lemon Media Network will draw on Libsyn Ads’ Host-Read, programmatic Automatic Podcast Ads and Integrated Brand Opportunities offerings, along with Dynamic Ad Insertion and the Libsyn Audience Network for additional targeting and scale.

The agreement adds to a run of creator deals Libsyn has closed over the past year. The company disclosed in August 2025 that it had surpassed $112 million in total creator payouts since 2017, with payments to podcasters up 40% in the first seven months of 2025 over the same period the prior year. Libsyn added exclusive hosting deals with shows including “10% Happier with Dan Harris” and “Stay True with Madison Prewitt Troutt” during that period, alongside renewals with “The Viall Files” and “The Newsworthy.”

Lemon launched “The Don Lemon Show” independently in 2024 following his departure from CNN. Elon Musk canceled a planned debut of the show on X shortly after interviewing Lemon for the podcast that year.