5 Major Changes To The BFFs Podcast: The Shocking New Era Without Dave Portnoy

The *BFFs Podcast* is officially returning in early January 2025, but the show you once knew is gone. Following a significant break and the shocking announcement of a major co-host's departure, the popular Barstool Sports production is set to relaunch with a "very different" and "fresh new approach," spearheaded by the remaining power duo, Josh Richards and Brianna "Chickenfry" LaPaglia. This highly-anticipated comeback marks a definitive new era for the show, shifting its focus and structure to match the evolving landscape of pop culture and the hosts' personal brands. The biggest news dominating the podcast world in late 2024 was the confirmation that Barstool Sports founder, Dave Portnoy, would be stepping away from the show he helped launch. This decision, announced in November 2024, was a monumental signal of change, leaving the show's future in the hands of its two younger, highly influential hosts. The new season, premiering on January 8, 2025, promises to be a deep dive into the lives of Richards and LaPaglia, coupled with a revamped format designed for maximum audience interaction and engagement.

The New Era: BFFs Podcast Returns with a Revamped Format

The original *BFFs Podcast* was defined by the dynamic, often contentious, three-way chemistry between Portnoy, Richards, and LaPaglia, blending the old-school Barstool ethos with the new-age world of TikTok and influencer culture. The biggest change, of course, is the absence of Portnoy, which fundamentally alters the show's power dynamic and its overall tone. The show's return, scheduled for January 8, 2025, is not just a continuation but a complete reboot. Co-host Brianna LaPaglia has teased a "very different" version of the show, indicating a deliberate move away from the previous structure.

5 Key Changes Fans Should Expect in the New BFFs

The shift from a three-person panel to a duo format is a massive gamble, but it allows Richards and LaPaglia to fully lean into their established rapport and their massive, shared audience.

1. Dave Portnoy’s Official Exit: The most significant change is the departure of the Barstool Sports figurehead. Portnoy announced his plan to leave the show by the end of 2024, citing his original plan to only stay for a set period. His absence removes the "old guard" perspective and the show's primary source of mainstream media friction.
2. A Duo-Hosted Show: The show will continue exclusively with Josh Richards and Brianna LaPaglia (Chickenfry) at the helm. This places the spotlight squarely on their friendship, their personal lives, and their experiences as two of the biggest content creators in the world.
3. Introduction of Interactive Segments: The revamped format will reportedly include new "interactive activities and segments." This suggests a deeper connection with the audience, potentially incorporating more fan questions, live reactions, or audience challenges, capitalizing on their social media roots.
4. A Sharper Focus on Pop Culture and Creator Drama: While the show always covered trending topics, the new focus is expected to be a more concentrated dive into pop culture, TikTok drama, and the lives of fellow content creators. Without Portnoy's business-centric perspective, the show will likely become more youth-focused and entertainment-driven.
5. New Studio and Production Vibe: With a "fresh new approach" and a shift in the host lineup, fans should anticipate a visual refresh as well. The new environment will reflect the personalities of Richards and LaPaglia, moving the show into its own distinct, post-Portnoy identity.

Meet the New Power Duo: Josh Richards and Brianna LaPaglia Biography

The success of the new *BFFs Podcast* rests entirely on the shoulders of its two remaining hosts, both of whom have built colossal followings on social media platforms like TikTok.

Josh Richards

• Full Name: Joshua Kenneth Richards
• Age: 22 (as of late 2024)
• Origin: Canada
• Primary Platform: TikTok (Over 25 million followers)
• Career Highlights: Rose to fame as a member of the Sway House collective; co-founded TalentX (a talent management company) and Ani Energy; is a successful entrepreneur and investor; co-host of *BFFs Podcast* since its inception.
• Key Entities/Projects: Sway House, TalentX, Ani Energy, *Project Verified*, Barstool Sports.

Brianna "Chickenfry" LaPaglia

• Full Name: Brianna LaPaglia
• Age: 25 (as of late 2024)
• Origin: Massachusetts, USA
• Nickname: Chickenfry (stemming from a viral TikTok)
• Primary Platform: TikTok (Over 2 million followers) and Instagram
• Career Highlights: Known for her relatable, "every-girl" persona and candid storytelling; hosts her own successful solo podcast, *PlanBri Uncut*; became a prominent Barstool Sports personality; co-host of *BFFs Podcast*.
• Key Entities/Projects: *PlanBri Uncut*, Barstool Sports, *Project Verified*.

The Controversies, The Culture, and The Future of BFFs

The *BFFs Podcast* has always been a lightning rod for pop culture discussions and influencer drama, generating massive topical authority by covering the biggest names and most viral stories. This is the core strength that Richards and LaPaglia will undoubtedly amplify in the new format.

Topical Authority and Entity Integration

The show's history is peppered with discussions about high-profile figures and major events, which will continue to be the lifeblood of the new era. The shift to a duo means more freedom to explore the nuanced world of digital celebrity without the filter of an older, traditional media figure. The show has successfully navigated discussions around figures like Bobbi Althoff, the departure of Alix Earle from the *Unwell* podcast, the breakup of the Sway House, and the reactions to major celebrity news such as the King Kylie era and the Lizzo allegations. This deep engagement with the creator economy—from TikTok trends to the controversies surrounding figures like Kai Cenat—ensures the podcast remains at the cutting edge of what's currently trending. The hosts' own experiences, including their work on the reality show *Project Verified* and their coverage of events like the MTV Video Music Awards and shows like *Dancing with the Stars* and *White Lotus*, provide a rich tapestry of content.

The Challenge of Chemistry and Evolution

The biggest challenge for the new *BFFs* will be maintaining the show's high listener engagement while forging a new identity. The original tension and mentorship dynamic provided by Portnoy is gone. The new challenge is to transform their existing friendship into a compelling, weekly production that can sustain the same level of viewership. Josh Richards' entrepreneurial mindset and Brianna LaPaglia's candid, unfiltered humor are the perfect combination to tackle the modern social media landscape. Their shared history at Barstool Sports and their deep connections within the creator economy give them unparalleled access and perspective. The new format is a clear strategic move to double down on their authentic connection and the content that truly resonates with their younger demographic. By focusing on interactive segments and their own lives, they are betting on the audience's desire for a more intimate and unfiltered look at the lives of their favorite creators. The return of the *BFFs Podcast* on January 8, 2025, is more than just a new season; it’s the launch of a completely new brand. It signals a generational shift in podcasting, where the TikTok stars are taking full control of the narrative, proving that the future of media belongs to the creators who truly understand their audience. The new era is set to be less about Barstool's past and more about the future of pop culture commentary.