Podcast episode · 10 March 2026

Cody Simpson: I Became Famous at 13… I Had No Idea What It Would Cost

From teen pop star to elite swimmer, Cody Simpson opens up about fame, identity and what happens when success comes too early.Known for hits like Pretty…

We Need To Talk with Paul C. Brunson podcast cover
109 min

About this conversation

From teen pop star to elite swimmer, Cody Simpson opens up about fame, identity and what happens when success comes too early.Known for hits like Pretty Brown Eyes, Paradise and iYiYi, Cody reveals how YouTube covers led to a record deal, worldwide fame and life inside the teenage pop machine. He reflects on being discovered online during the rise of Justin Bieber, moving to Los Angeles at 13 and navigating the pressure of fame before he was old enough to understand the cost.

Cody speaks candidly about the years that nearly derailed him, from rebellion, partying and substance abuse to experiencing psychosis and hitting rock bottom. He explains why leaving music and returning to elite swimming ultimately saved his life and how that decision led to representing Australia and winning medals.

We also explore the relationships and moments that shaped his journey, from dating Kylie Jenner, Gigi Hadid, Emma McKeon and Miley Cyrus to the brutal discipline required to rebuild his life after fame.

Now returning to music with a new record deal and a completely different mindset, Cody shares what he’s learned about fame, identity, discipline and why the most important chapter of his life may still be ahead.Cody Simpson, We Need To Talk

Episode summary and show notes supplied by the official We Need To Talk feed.

In this conversation

Chapters from the official episode notes. Timings may vary when adverts are inserted.

More from the official show notes

This conversation includes discussion of addiction and mental health. We've included support charities below:

MIND: https://g2ul0.app.link/gbuRaxjM3Nb

Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM): https://g2ul0.app.link/npaQKXUV4Wb

Follow me here:

https://www.instagram.com/needtotalk

https://www.tiktok.com/@weneedtotalkpod

Follow Cody here:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/codysimpson

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@codysimpson

Sponsored by:

Snapchat: Learn more at https://thekeysuk.snapchat.com

Shopify: www.shopify.co.uk/needtotalk

Notes from Paul

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