Podcasting is an exciting way to share your ideas and passions with the world. But if you’re looking to monetize your podcast, then you need to have an audience. Unfortunately, many aspiring podcasters think that just by podcasting for a certain amount of time, they will be able to make money. This is not the case.

As Dave Jackson, the honest podcast consultant, explains, you can’t monetize dust. To make money from your podcast, you need to have a sizable audience. While there are some rare occasions where you can make money with a small audience, the reality is that most podcasters need at least 10,000 downloads per episode to attract big sponsors. Unfortunately, only 10% of podcasters get 10,000 downloads per episode.

The good news is that there are other ways to monetize your podcast besides advertising. Affiliate marketing, crowdfunding, and donations are all viable options (see the book Profit From Your Podcast). You also don’t have to make money from your podcast. If you’re doing it for fun, that’s perfectly fine.

The key to monetizing your podcast is to grow your audience. If you have a small audience, you won’t be able to attract sponsors or make money from your podcast. You must focus on growing your audience and building relationships with your listeners. If you need help, you can sign up for my Podcast Consultant service.

I'm truly not trying to crush your dreams and aspirations. I just want you to have accurate information for your to base your choices. Just because you have less than 10,000 downloads per episode doesn't mean you can't have a sponsor. I get between two and three thousand downloads per episode of the School of Podcasting. I've had sponsors in the past that wanted to reach podcasters. I prefer to be my own sponsor (as it is more lucrative). 

In conclusion, if you want to monetize your podcast, you must grow your audience. This will take time and effort, but it’s worth it in the end. With the right strategies and patience, you can turn your podcast into a profitable business.

Do You Have a Podcast Plan?
Creating a podcast plan is essential for success. Your plan should include a list of topics you want to cover, as well as a schedule for releasing episodes. You should also decide how to monetize your podcast, such as through sponsorships, advertising, or selling merchandise. Additionally, you should create a marketing strategy to promote your podcast and reach your target audience. This could include creating a website, engaging with listeners on social media, and leveraging influencers. 

It’s also important to have a plan for dealing with any challenges. This could include dealing with technical issues, such as audio quality, or responding to negative feedback. Additionally, you should have a plan for how you’ll grow your audience. This could include guest appearances on other podcasts, running contests, or creating a referral program. 

Finally, it’s important to have a plan for staying motivated. This could include setting goals, creating a timeline for achieving them, and rewarding yourself when you reach them. It’s also important to have a supportive team that can help you stay on track. A podcast consultant can be a great way to get advice and support.

Need Help With Your Podcast?

Are you looking to start your own podcast but don't know where to begin? Look no further than the School of Podcasting. Our comprehensive online courses and one-on-one coaching will teach you everything you need to know, from equipment and editing to marketing and monetization. With our proven methods and expert instructors, you'll create high-quality, engaging content quickly. Say goodbye to the frustration and uncertainty and hello to a successful podcasting career with the School of Podcasting.