Indian-Origin AI Podcaster and Entrepreneur Make TIME100 Creators List

Two Indian-origin creators have earned a place on TIME’s 2026 TIME100 Creators list. This highlights the growing influence of Indian voices in the global creator economy. AI podcaster Dwarkesh Patel and entrepreneur Shama Hyder were recognised for using digital platforms to shape conversations around artificial intelligence, technology, entrepreneurship, and business.

The annual list celebrates 100 creators from around the world whose work is making a significant impact across platforms such as YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram, Spotify, TikTok, Twitch, and Substack.

Why did TIME recognise Dwarkesh Patel?

Dwarkesh Patel was featured in the Leaders category for building one of the internet’s most influential long-form technology podcasts.

Born in Vadodara, Gujarat, Patel moved to the United States at the age of eight. While studying computer science at the University of Texas at Austin, he launched the Dwarkesh Podcast. This podcast has since become a go-to destination for conversations on artificial intelligence, science, economics, and history. According to TIME, the podcast now averages more than 1.8 million listens per episode.

Over the years, Patel has interviewed some of the biggest names in technology and business. These include Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, Satya Nadella, Jensen Huang, Ilya Sutskever, and former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair. His discussions often explore the long-term implications of AI. As a result, the podcast is a respected platform for thoughtful, in-depth conversations rather than short-form commentary.

What earned Shama Hyder a place on the list?

TIME also recognised Shama Hyder, an entrepreneur and digital marketing strategist born in Margao, Goa.

Hyder founded Zen Media with just $1,500. She grew it into an internationally recognised B2B marketing and public relations agency before successfully exiting the business. Today, she focuses on helping organisations understand and adopt artificial intelligence through her advisory work, books, LinkedIn content, and Substack newsletter.

TIME highlighted her long-standing role in helping businesses adapt to digital transformation. Beyond running companies, Hyder has built an audience by consistently sharing practical insights on marketing, leadership, and AI. She prefers this approach rather than chasing viral trends.

Reflecting on the recognition, Hyder said the honour represents years of consistent work behind the scenes. She also noted that recognition often arrives long after the effort itself.

What does this recognition say about the creator economy?

The inclusion of Patel and Hyder reflects how influence in the creator economy is increasingly being measured by expertise and meaningful conversations. This is a shift from being measured by entertainment alone.

Both creators have built loyal audiences by producing educational, knowledge-driven content. Their recognition also highlights the growing global demand for creators who simplify complex topics such as artificial intelligence, business strategy, and emerging technology.

In announcing the list, TIME said independent creators have become one of the world’s most influential sources of information and ideas. Consequently, this makes their role in shaping public conversations more important than ever.

As India’s creator ecosystem continues to expand, the success of Dwarkesh Patel and Shama Hyder demonstrates that creators can build global influence not just through reach. They can also do so through expertise, consistency, and meaningful storytelling.