How ‘What’s Poppin?’ Creator Davis Burleson Went From TikTok to Hosting SiriusXM Radio Shows: ‘You Have Your Platform, What Are You Going to Do With It?’

Why It Matters

The move shows how legacy broadcasters are tapping influencer audiences to stay relevant, while creators gain diversified revenue streams beyond social media.

Key Takeaways

• TikTok star gains two SiriusXM shows in March 2026.
• Shows focus on pop culture, music, and long‑form interviews.
• Transition from 40‑second clips to hour‑long radio formats.
• SiriusXM leverages influencer audiences for new channel growth.
• Burleson plans acting, memoir, expanding beyond digital.

Pulse Analysis

The rise of TikTok as a talent incubator has prompted traditional audio players like SiriusXM to scout creators with built‑in audiences. By integrating Burleson’s "What’s Poppin?" brand into its lineup, SiriusXM not only fills its TikTok Radio slot but also leverages his two‑million‑strong follower base to attract younger listeners who favor bite‑size content yet crave deeper engagement. This strategy aligns with the industry’s shift toward hybrid programming that blends social‑media virality with conventional broadcast quality.

Burleson’s personal evolution from street‑interview clips to hour‑long radio shows underscores the skill set required for cross‑platform success. While his on‑camera charisma translated well to audio, he faced a steep learning curve—spending eight hours to produce an hour‑long segment and learning to eliminate filler words. SiriusXM’s coaching helped him harness vocal nuances, turning a perceived disadvantage into a unique strength. The result is a conversational format that feels like “talking to a best friend on FaceTime," offering listeners an intimate, personality‑driven experience.

For the broader influencer economy, Burleson’s expansion signals that creators can now monetize their platforms through diversified media channels, from podcasts to satellite radio and beyond. Brands and talent agencies are watching closely, recognizing that a creator’s value extends past view counts to include cross‑media adaptability. As more influencers pursue acting, publishing, or brand consulting, the line between digital star and traditional media personality will continue to blur, reshaping talent acquisition and advertising models across the entertainment landscape.