Conservative podcaster's massive audience and private meeting with Erika Kirk fuel global attention, even as some on the right voice frustration

December 16, 2025 - In an era where digital media personalities rise and fall with the speed of a viral clip, Candace Owens stands apart as an enduring – and inescapable – phenomenon. Whether celebrated as a truth-teller or criticized as a conspiracy promoter, the 36-year-old conservative commentator has undeniably become the most talked-about influencer on the planet in 2025. Her self-titled podcast, *Candace*, consistently ranks as the world's top show in downloads and views per episode, with recent claims placing average episode performance at an astonishing 3.6 million downloads and views, dwarfing traditional media outlets and cementing her dominance in the independent media space.

The latest chapter in Owens' meteoric influence unfolded yesterday with a private, nearly 4.5-hour meeting between Owens and Erika Kirk, widow of Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, who tragically passed away earlier this year. The sit-down, described by both women as "extremely productive," came after weeks of escalating tensions sparked by Owens' on-air speculations about the circumstances surrounding Charlie Kirk's death, including allegations of betrayal by close associates and broader international conspiracies.

Owens broke her silence on the meeting in a video update released today, reiterating the positive nature of the conversation. "Erika and I had an extremely productive 4 1/2 hour meeting that I think we both feel should have taken place a lot earlier than it did," she stated, echoing similar sentiments shared by Kirk. The update has rapidly gained traction, building on the momentum of recent episodes – including one responding to Kirk that amassed over 7 million views – underscoring the insatiable public appetite for Owens' commentary.

A Podcast Empire Built on Controversy and Reach

Launched after her high-profile departure from The Daily Wire, *Candace* has exploded into a daily powerhouse, frequently outpacing established shows on major platforms. Episodes tackling hot-button issues routinely rack up millions of views within days, with Owens' unfiltered style drawing a devoted audience that spans beyond traditional conservative demographics. Her ability to drive conversation – whether through debates on politics, culture, or current events – has made her podcast appointment viewing for millions.

The Charlie Kirk controversy, in particular, propelled viewership to new heights. Episodes delving into the death and its aftermath became focal points of national discourse, amplifying Owens' reach even as they ignited fierce debate.

Divisions Within the Conservative Movement

Not all reactions have been positive. Owens' willingness to question official narratives surrounding Kirk's death – including suggestions of involvement by foreign governments or internal betrayals – has drawn sharp rebuke from some quarters of the right. Critics accuse her of peddling unsubstantiated theories that dishonor Kirk's memory and fracture conservative unity at a critical time. The backlash intensified to the point where Erika Kirk publicly urged Owens to "stop" promoting conspiracies, setting the stage for yesterday's meeting.

Yet this very controversy appears to fuel Owens' ascent. Sources close to the movement describe her as "radioactive" yet irresistible – a figure who commands attention even from detractors. The reconciliatory tone following the Kirk meeting may ease some tensions, but it has done little to dim the spotlight on Owens.

An Unparalleled Cultural Force

Love her or loathe her, Candace Owens' influence in 2025 is undeniable. With a platform that reaches tens of millions weekly, record-shattering metrics, and the ability to shape narratives on the biggest stories of the day, she has transcended traditional influencer status to become a central figure in global political discourse. As one observer noted, everyone – from supporters to staunch opponents – is talking about Candace Owens. In a fragmented media landscape, that level of ubiquity is the ultimate currency.