Alex Cooper’s Unwell Valued at $500 Million After Investment From Patrick Whitesell’s WTSL

Unwell, the podcast network founded by Alex Cooper and Matt Kaplan, has reached a valuation of $500 million after receiving investment from Patrick Whitesell's new firm, WTSL. The financial details of the investment were not disclosed, but it marks Unwell's first outside investment. The company, which boasts a podcast network with over a dozen shows and nearly 100 million followers across platforms, is primarily focused on female audiences, with 89% of its listeners being female and 72% aged between 18 and 35.

Unwell has diversified into live events, microdramas, streaming series, and a consumer products business, including energy drinks and stick packs. The company also boasts an in-house advertising division, Unwell Creative Agency. WTSL will provide Unwell with strategic expertise, industry relationships, and a track record of supporting innovative companies.

Whitesell expressed confidence in Unwell's ability to define the present and future of media. Despite allegations of a toxic work environment, Cooper defended the company, stating that Unwell has been profitable from the start and is using the new funding to expand through acquisitions and investments.