Podcast FAQ

how to start a podcast and get paid

by Evert Kshlerin Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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  • Affiliate Marketing. Just like you can use affiliate marketing to make money from a blog, so too can you from a podcast. ...
  • Sell Your Own Product or Service. Podcasting is an excellent option if you create a product or service targeted to your podcast listeners.
  • Sell Ads. You’ll need to have developed a show with a good number of listeners before you can offer to advertise, but once you do, you can sell 20 to ...
  • Get Sponsors. Similar to ads, you can get show sponsors. You’ll need a sizable audience to get a business brand to regularly send money to sponsor your show.
  • Premium Content. Similar to the freebie offer as a way to entice people to join your list, you can use the podcast as a mechanism to entice people to pay ...
  • Donations. There’s no harm in asking for donations to help support the show. ...

How Do Podcasts Make Money?
  1. Sponsorships. Sponsorships are the most common way podcasters make money. ...
  2. Direct support including premium content. Direct support is when you simply ask your fans to send you money to support your show. ...
  3. Affiliate sales. ...
  4. Complementary products.

Full Answer

How to start a profitable podcast?

Take a look at several out-of-the-box podcast money-making ideas below:

  • Advertisements-Podcasts that have a vast following are highly sought by advertisers. ...
  • Rely on sponsorships-You can generate thousands of dollars a month if you can find sponsors. ...
  • Establish relationships-When you are able to establish good relationships; you make your podcasts more profitable. ...

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Can podcasts make money?

To be frank, most make $0. In fact, many podcasts have negative cash flow because they spend money buying equipment and paying hosting fees before they earn a single dollar. Creative work like podcasting doesn’t make any money until people choose to watch you. It takes time for listeners to decide you have value.

How to go about starting a podcast?

  • Choose a topic you’re passionate about and you’ll stick to
  • Research your target audience to come up with a plan for your show
  • Decide on your podcast title, description, and artwork
  • Buy and setup your equipment
  • Prepare for recording your first episode
  • Record your first episode
  • Edit and publish the episode
  • Launch and promote your podcast to the world!

How do people make great podcasts?

Part 1 of 3: Creating Interesting Content Download Article

  1. Listen to podcasts for ideas and inspiration. If you’re interested in making a podcast, you probably already like listening to them.
  2. Choose a podcast topic that you're passionate about. There’s no magic formula for making a hit podcast that draws in a huge audience.
  3. Determine which format suits your topic and style. ...

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How much money can you make from a podcast?

As an estimate, if your podcast has about 10,000 downloads per episode, you can expect to make between $500 – $900 per episode in affiliate sales.

How much does it cost to start a podcast?

In fact, if you already have a computer and you're operating on a shoestring budget, you can record, edit, and launch a podcast for less than $200. On the other hand, if you want to use higher-end equipment, starting a podcast can cost a few thousand dollars.

How do you get paid off a podcast?

Advertising and sponsorships are probably the first things you think of when looking for ways to make money from podcasting. There are several different podcast ad networks that can connect you with advertisers. They do all the work of finding advertisers, negotiating rates, getting the script, and more.

Do you get paid if you have a podcast?

Podcast hosts can earn money through affiliate marketing, donations and selling their own merchandise. Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us.

How long does it take for a podcast to make money?

Relying on the experience of Marc Clair, a podcast host, and producer, it may take as long as 18 months before you start seeing results. That's if you produce a show weekly. In his words, things can be faster than stated if you have luck, a marketing budget, and irresistible content.

Can anybody start a podcast?

Anyone can start a podcast. You just have to record your episodes and publish them online. However, turning your podcast show into a successful business is altogether a different story.

Does Spotify pay you for podcasts?

Streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts pay out for streams, but the payout tends to be very low. Podcast sponsorships are one way, but for new podcasts, the likelihood of finding a high-paying sponsorship is slim unless you're already a well-established figure.

Do podcasts on Spotify make money?

Commissions From Affiliate Marketing: Affiliate marketing is another primary avenue for earning money on Spotify podcasts. You quote a unique link in your podcast through which your listeners can purchase products. The seller pays you commissions on purchases customers make through your link.

Can you make a living off a podcast?

All you have to do is read your ads on your podcast recording according to your agreement. In fact, sponsorships are the most lucrative way to make money from your podcast. According to IAB and PwC, advertisers spent $678 million in 2019 and will spend more than a billion in 2020.

How do you start a podcast with no money?

How to Start a Podcast With Almost No MoneyWhy do you want to start a podcast? ... The first step: Start talking! ... Listen to similar podcasts. ... Get (cheap) recording equipment. ... Download audio editing software and learn how to use it. ... Get a logo and a theme song. ... Name your podcast. ... Get a web site.More items...•

How hard is it to start a podcast?

Starting a podcast isn't difficult, but there are a number of steps you'll need to go through in order to get it launched. In this podcasting tutorial, we'll walk you through every step of the process: Choosing a topic & name. Show and episode format.

How do I make my podcast famous?

🤑 Podcast marketingEncourage reviews from your listeners. ... Share your podcast on social media. ... Repurpose your podcast as a YouTube video. ... Prepare three episodes for your podcast launch. ... Host a contest to get reviews and subscribers. ... Collaborate with other podcasters. ... Enroll in HARO. ... Buy paid ads.More items...•

Is it free to start a podcast?

Most podcasts are free. They're free to create and free to listen to.

How do you start a podcast with no money?

How to Start a Podcast With Almost No MoneyWhy do you want to start a podcast? ... The first step: Start talking! ... Listen to similar podcasts. ... Get (cheap) recording equipment. ... Download audio editing software and learn how to use it. ... Get a logo and a theme song. ... Name your podcast. ... Get a web site.More items...•

How much does it cost to start a podcast on Spotify?

You can start using podcast hosting provider Buzzsprout for free, but you're better to opt for their $12 a month plan. That way, your episodes won't be deleted after 90 days, and you can upload more content, too.

How much does it cost to maintain a podcast?

Also, these total costs are assuming that you would buy every piece of equipment listed, which is unlikely necessary for you based on the equipment you already have as well as your personal needs. Total Recurring Costs: Low: $5/month. High: $100/month.

Do Podcasters Make Money Podcasting?

Yes! Many podcasters make a full-time living from their podcasts. So you're in good company thinking about how to start a podcast and make money.

How Do I Launch a Podcast?

Launching a podcast is relatively easy. You'll need some basic tools and equipment, but overall it's an affordable endeavor. We'll walk you through each step of the process in this guide.

What Is a Podcast?

In short, podcasts are audio files that can be streamed or downloaded by listeners on their computer or mobile device. They're like radio shows but listeners have more control over what they listen to.

What Kinds of Podcasts Are There?

There are a ton – the possibilities are endless! So when considering how to start a podcast and make money, know that your options are limitless.

Step 1: Get a Concept

The first step in starting a podcast is coming up with an idea for the show. This can be anything from discussing current events or sharing personal stories, to teaching people about a specific topic.

Step 2: Name Your Podcast

Once you've picked an idea for your podcast and decided how often it'll be released, it's time to give the concept a name.

Step 3: Get the Basic Tools Needed to Start Podcasting

Now that you have a concept and a podcast name, it's time to get the basic tools needed to start podcasting.

What is the Daily Wire?

The Daily Wire is a podcast and news site that offers the video version of the podcast, live episodes, a tumbler, and other bonuses when you purchase an annual subscription. No matter what you think about the content they offer, this is a great example of premium content. Events.

How much does the Bowery Boys podcast make?

Here are a couple of examples: The Bowery Boys is a podcast about the history of New York City and makes over $3,800/month through Patreon. The Last Podcast On The Left makes over $57,000/month just through Patreon. They also sell shirts and do regular live shows in different cities.

What is the largest ad network?

One of the largest ad networks is Midroll, another popular network is Authentic, and many of the podcast hosting companies have their own networks as well. Another option that can work well if you have a smaller or more niche audience is to reach out directly to companies that would be a great fit for your audience.

What is coaching and consulting?

Coaching & Consulting is somewhat similar to offering a service, but you usually don’t do the work for them. Instead, you help or guide them on how to improve. Common industries that have a lot of consultants and coaches are fitness, diet, business, and teaching, but I’m sure there are consultants in every industry.

What is affiliate marketing?

Affiliate marketing or performance marketing is where you get a commission when you refer people to other companies. You will typically earn money when someone makes a purchase. Affiliate marketing works best when you promote products or services that you use or are familiar with, so you can authentically promote them.

Who is Ross Winn?

Ross Winn is the founder of Podcast Insights, the industry-leading podcast education site. He has helped thousands of people start and grow a podcast and loves to test out new gear and software.

Can you ask for donations for a podcast?

You can ask for donations to help support you and your podcast. More entertainment-focused podcasts would be a good fit to monetize in this way. A common platform for accepting donations is Patreon. They make it really easy to offer additional content or bonuses depending on the amount of money people support you with.

How to Start a Podcast (and Make Money) in 13 Easy Steps

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links and at no additional cost to you, I’ll earn a commission. Know that I only recommend products and services I’ve personally used and stand behind.

The History of Podcasting

Before we get into how to start a podcast, let’s take a step back and talk about how podcasting got its start.

1. Develop a Concept for Your Podcast

Creating a concept for your podcast is very similar to choosing a niche to blog about. Consider:

2. Name Your Podcast

Naming a blog or podcast is no small task. It may not be the most important part of starting a podcast, but it does hold some real weight.

3. Get the Basic Equipment You Need to Start a Podcast

You’ve got a concept, a name, and you know why you want to start a podcast. Now it’s time to determine what basic equipment you’ll need to start your podcast.

4. Choose Recording and Editing Software

Recording and editing your audio is an essential part of launching a podcast.

5. Copyright and Trademarking Your Podcast

Copyrighting your podcast may not be the first thing on your mind when you haven’t even recorded your first track, but it’s something to be aware of as you launch and grow your podcast.

What Is A Podcast?

Podcast is a type of program that uses audio episodes focused on a particular topic or theme. Podcasts can cover anything you can think of from TV shows like Game of Thrones to digital animation or camping.

How Do Podcasts Make Money?

The most successful podcasts make money through a combination of monetization strategies - only using one can work, but isn’t as effective.

How To Start A Podcast

It doesn't take much to start a podcast. You could get started with as little as a good idea and a reliable internet connection. We recommend investing in a couple of pieces of recording equipment and some solid recording and editing software so you can create high-quality content from the jump.

How Do I Record a Podcast Remotely?

Many top-earning podcasts like The Joe Rogan Experience feature an interview-style format. You don’t need to have the budget or resources to transport guests to your studio to record them for your podcast.

How to Launch Your First Podcast Episode

Plenty of free beginners’ manuals will help you learn how to start a podcast that you can eventually monetize. Here is an easy-to-use checklist for launching your first podcast episode:

How to Find Your Podcast's RSS Feed

Your podcast’s RSS feed ensures that your show gets picked up by directories for distribution. An RSS feed will automatically update all of your podcast platforms every time you release new content.

Submitting Your Podcast to Directories

Once you have your RSS feed, you can submit your podcast to directories. Usually, getting your podcast listed in a directory is a simple matter of copying and pasting your RSS feed code. Here are the requirements for getting listed in some of the top directories for podcasts:

Why is podcasting important?

Podcasting is an excellent option if you create a product or service targeted to your podcast listeners. For example, if you have a bookkeeping service, you can have a podcast on bookkeeping secrets for small business owners. You can use the show to share tips, but also, share your expertise and services.

How long should a podcast be?

Most podcast experts agree that 20-45 minutes is an ideal show length. Some podcasters post daily, while most posts weekly. However, you can post monthly if that’s what it takes to produce a solid show full of value for your audience.

What to do before recording a show?

Before you record your first real show, have a test run to learn how to use your equipment and software, and fix your glitches. For example, make sure your recorder is actually recording your Skype call. You don’t want to interview someone only to discover the call wasn’t recorded.

How much time do you need to advertise a show?

You’ll need to have developed a show with a good number of listeners before you can offer to advertise, but once you do, you can sell 20 to 30 seconds of time for other offers. You can also have these ads on your website with the episode of the show.

Is podcasting a business?

Podcasting is a fun and affordable way to promote your business, connect with influencers, and tout your expertise. Or you can start a podcast as a home business. The challenge for many who are interested in starting a profitable podcast is that technical know-how and logistics can seem overwhelming. While there is a lot to plan and do ...

Can I edit podcasts on Garageband?

A long time, affordable (as in free) option for podcast editing has been Audacity. Mac users have Garageband standards on their machines. There are other audio editing options as well, but you’ll want to find one that allows you to fix sound issues, cut segments, and add elements (i.e. your intro and outro). Another option is to outsource audio editing. If you’re doing a videocast, you’ll want the same elements except it should edit video.

Do you want to read a podcast?

The most interesting podcasts are conversational in nature. So while you may want a script to stay focused and avoid rambling, you don’t want to read your show. If you’ll be interviewing a guest, get or share questions in advance so you both know what’s going to be covered.

What is a podcast host?

Media or Podcast hosts are services that store your audio and allow your listeners to listen, download, and subscribe to your podcast. One common misconception when learning how to start a podcast is that you upload your podcast to places like iTunes. This actually isn’t the case.

What is the point of a podcast?

The whole point of a podcast is that people listen to it, so give them a reason to click on one of your episodes. Make it clear to people what they will get from listening to your show. If you look on any podcast directory you will see shows with titles like “How To…”, “Five Tips For…” etc.

How long is Zoom free?

A popular option is Zoom.us, which is a video conferencing tool that's free to use for 2 people, and free for up to 40 minutes for a group of people. Read the pros and cons of Zoom in podcasting here. A much better option is to opt for a dedicated ‘double-ender' call recorder.

How many episodes of a season of podcast?

When you start a seasonal podcast, each season will usually have a theme. You might create episodes based on that theme or topic for 6-12 episodes, then have a break. After a month or two, you’ll launch a new season (with another theme/topic) and repeat the process.

How do podcasters make money?

1. Sponsorships. Sponsorships are the most common way podcasters make money. This is when the podcast promotes the sponsor during the show. You probably hear your favorite shows plug their advertisers a few times in every episode. How much you earn from a sponsor depends on the number of downloads your episodes earn.

Why do podcasts have negative cash flow?

In fact, many podcasts have negative cash flow because they spend money buying equipment and paying hosting fees before they earn a single dollar. Creative work like podcasting doesn’t make any money until people choose to watch you. It takes time for listeners to decide you have value.

Why are mid roll ads more valuable?

Mid-roll ads are more valuable because the audience is captive at the time. Sometimes the sponsor will give you a script to read. Other times the sponsor will give you more flexibility. When you first start pitching advertising, we recommend asking for $15 for pre- and post-roll ads and $20 for mid-roll ads.

How long do preroll ads run?

Pre-roll ads run at the beginning of the show, usually for about 15-30 seconds. Post-roll ads run at the end of the show, also for 15-30 seconds. They are worth the same to advertisers.

What is affiliate sales?

Affiliate sales are similar to sponsorships, but instead of getting paid by the download, you get paid based on what you sell for another company. The other company pays you a commission for each sale. Audible has a popular affiliate program that a lot of podcasters and YouTubers take advantage of.

What is direct support?

Direct support is when you simply ask your fans to send you money to support your show. If your content and personality are good, there are plenty of people who will happily throw you a few dollars so you can keep producing episodes.

Does audible have an affiliate link?

Audible gives you a special affiliate link to promote. When someone uses your link, you get credit for the sale and earn $15. If you monetize with affiliate sales, make sure the company gives you a simple link that’s easy for you to say and your listeners to understand. Good affiliate URL: www.sponsor.com/your-name.

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Affiliate Marketing

Sponsors & Advertising

Courses

Services

Coaching & Consulting

Crowdfunding & Donations

  • You can ask for donations to help support you and your podcast. More entertainment-focused podcasts would be a good fit to monetize in this way. A common platform for accepting donations is Patreon. They make it really easy to offer additional content or bonuses depending on the amount of money people support you with. They even give you the abilit...
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