Woke up this morning and realized you have BILLS bills? Wanna go on vacation? Had your eye on a little (or not so little) treat for yourself? Have the kids in your life started a new expensive sport or instrument and you want to support them? So, you’ve launched your podcast, built an audience, and now you’re wondering—how do I actually make money from this?
Whether you’re podcasting as a passion project, a business tool, or a full-time career, there are multiple ways to turn your show into a source of income. Let’s get into seven proven ways to monetize your podcast, plus tips on making them work for you!
1. Sponsorships and Advertisements
“Can I get sponsors if my podcast is small?”
Yes! While large shows attract big-name sponsors, smaller podcasts can still land deals with niche brands. Many companies prefer highly engaged, targeted audiences over sheer numbers.
How to Get Sponsors:
- Make sure you have your media kit ready.
- Reach out to brands that align with your podcast’s niche.
- Join podcast ad networks like Podcorn, AdvertiseCast, or Anchor Sponsorships.
- Offer different ad types—pre-roll (beginning), mid-roll (middle), or post-roll (end).
Pro Tip: If you don’t have sponsors yet, try affiliate marketing (see #2) as a first step!
2. Affiliate Marketing
“What is affiliate marketing, and how does it work for podcasts?”
Affiliate marketing means promoting a product or service and earning a commission on sales made through your referral link. It’s a great way to monetize without needing traditional sponsors.
How to Start:
- Sign up for affiliate programs like Amazon Associates, ShareASale, or individual brand programs.
- Mention and recommend products you genuinely love.
- Include affiliate links in your show notes, website, and social media.
Pro Tip: Always disclose affiliate links to maintain trust with your audience!
3. Listener Donations and Memberships
“Can I ask my listeners for money without sounding desperate?”
Absolutely! Many loyal listeners want to support their favorite podcasts. Platforms like Patreon, Buy Me a Coffee, and Supercast make it easy to offer paid memberships or one-time donations.
How to Encourage Donations:
- Offer exclusive content, ad-free episodes, or bonus interviews.
- Give early access to episodes or behind-the-scenes updates.
- Create fun incentives like shoutouts or private Q&A sessions.
- Make donating easy! Mention it in your episodes and add links to your show notes.
Pro Tip: Make sure you build time into your schedule to make exclusive content and send out perks. You want to always give what you promise to your supporters.
4. Sell Merchandise
“Is merch only for big podcasts?”
Not at all! If your audience connects with your brand, they’ll love wearing or using products that represent it. We always wear and use our merch in our episodes so build brand awareness, and get feedback like, “Aye! Where can I get a mug?” or “Love your hoodie? Is it on the site?
What to Sell:
- Branded T-shirts, mugs, or stickers with your logo or catchphrases.
- Digital products like e-books, templates, or exclusive content.
- Physical items that relate to your podcast’s theme (e.g., coffee mugs for a morning show).
Pro Tip: Use print-on-demand services like Teespring or Printful so you don’t have to handle inventory.
5. Offer Online Courses or Coaching
“Can my podcast make me money beyond ads and merch?”
Yes! If your podcast covers an area where you have expertise, you can teach what you know and get paid for it.
Ways to Monetize Your Knowledge:
- Create an online course (using platforms like Teachable or Kajabi).
- Offer one-on-one coaching or consulting services.
- Host paid webinars or workshops.
- Add bonus videos and tutorials to YouTube and monetize your views there.
Pro Tip: Start by offering a free resource to build trust, then upsell paid offerings.
6. Crowdfund a Special Project
“What if I want to fund a big podcast project?”
Crowdfunding is a great way to raise money for a special season, documentary-style episodes, or podcast expansion. Platforms like Kickstarter, Indiegogo, or GoFundMe let your audience directly support your vision.
How to Launch a Crowdfunding Campaign:
- Set a clear goal and explain why you need funding.
- Offer rewards for different contribution levels.
- Promote your campaign heavily in episodes, social media, and email lists.
Pro Tip: Crowdfunding works best when you already have an engaged audience, so build relationships before launching a campaign. Make sure that your followers know your story and are ready to support.
7. Get Paid for Speaking Engagements
“Can podcasting lead to paid speaking gigs?”
Definitely! A podcast can position you as an expert in your field, making you a great candidate for paid speaking opportunities, panel discussions, and workshops.
How to Get Speaking Gigs:
- List yourself on speaker directories like SpeakerHub or SpeakerMatch.
- Reach out to event organizers and industry conferences.
- Use your podcast as a portfolio to showcase your expertise.
Pro Tip: Even if a speaking gig is unpaid, it can lead to networking opportunities, clients, or sponsorships.
Final Thoughts: Which Podcast Monetization Method is Right for You?
The best way to make money from your podcast depends on your audience, niche, and personal goals. Ask yourself:
Do I want passive income? → Try affiliate marketing or ads.
Do I want to connect with fans? → Offer donations or memberships.
Do I have something to teach? → Create a course or coaching program.
Do I have a strong brand? → Sell merchandise.
Do I love public speaking? → Pursue paid gigs.
Most successful podcasters use multiple revenue streams—so don’t be afraid to experiment and see what works best for you! Want more podcasting tips? Sign up for the newsletter!
