Making Money from Your Own Podcast

Podcasting is one of the fastest-growing ways to share your story, knowledge, and ideas with a global audience all through audio.
You simply record yourself (and sometimes guests) talking about a topic you’re passionate about such as personal finance, lifestyle, self-improvement, or entertainment and upload it to platforms like Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
While it might start as a creative hobby, over time a podcast can grow into a profitable online brand through sponsorships, affiliate links, or listener support. The secret is consistency and creating episodes that educate, entertain, or connect with your audience.

Pros of Podcasting

Low start-up cost: You can begin with just your phone or laptop.
Creative outlet: A great way to share your ideas, stories, or lessons.
Builds trust: Listeners connect with your voice and personality.
Monetisation options: Sponsorships, affiliate links, or premium content.
Cross-platform growth: Combine it with your blog, website, or YouTube.

Cons of Podcasting

Takes time to build an audience: Growth comes with consistency.
Editing and sound quality: There’s a learning curve at first.
Ongoing schedule: Listeners expect regular uploads.
Income builds slowly: Monetisation often comes later.

How to Get Started in Podcasting

Step 1. Find Your Niche

Pick a topic you’re genuinely passionate about. Something you can discuss for hours and that helps or entertains others.
Popular podcast topics include:
Lifestyle, health, or minimalism
True stories or interviews or comedy
Small business and entrepreneurship
Motivation and self-improvement
Personal finance and money mindset
Your niche doesn’t have to be unique, it just needs your unique voice and perspective.

Step 2. Plan Your Content

Create a rough plan for your first 5–10 episodes before launching.
Keep them simple and consistent, weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly episodes all work fine.
Tip: Use a recurring segment or theme (like “Money Tip of the Week”) to build familiarity.

Step 3. Invest in Basic Equipment

You don’t need a professional studio, just clarity and good audio. Start with:
Microphone: USB mics like Blue Snowball or Samson Q2U.
Headphones: For monitoring sound quality.
Editing Software: Free tools like Audacity or GarageBand.
Record in a quiet space, avoid echo, and speak naturally.

step 4. Host & Distribute Your Podcast

You’ll need a hosting platform to upload and distribute your episodes across major platforms (Spotify, Apple Podcasts, etc.).
Popular options include:
Podbean Simple interface and free plan available.
Buzzsprout Great analytics and beginner support.
Spotify for Podcasters Easy integration with Spotify.
These tools handle your RSS feed, making your podcast accessible everywhere automatically.

Helpful Tools

Audacity Free, easy audio recording and editing.
CanvaCreate podcast artwork, social media graphics, and episode covers.
Alitu Automates podcast editing for beginners.
Descript Edit your podcast like a text document (great for removing filler words).

How Podcasts Make Money

There are several ways to monetise your show once you’ve built a listener base:
Sponsorships & Ads
Promote brands or products that align with your audience.
Often managed through podcast ad networks or directly with companies.
Affiliate Marketing
Mention or link to services you genuinely use.
Earn a commission per sale (perfect for finance or tech niches).
Listener Support
Platforms like Patreon or Buy Me a Coffee to let fans donate.
Offer early access, bonus episodes, or shoutouts as rewards.
Premium Content
Offer exclusive episodes or ad-free listening for a small subscription.

Typical Audience Sizes for Sponsorships

Micro (500-1,000 downloads/episode) £25-£100 per episode (local or niche sponsors)
Mid-tier (5,000-10,000 downloads/episode) £200-£500 per episode (regional brands and affiliates)
Large (50,000+ downloads) £1,000-£10,000+ per episode (National brands / major advertisers)
Even a small, loyal audience can attract sponsors as quality listeners matter more than quantity.

Your next steps 

Podcasting is a creative and flexible side hustle that grows with your passion and consistency.
It’s not about going viral, it’s about building a connection and community over time.
With patience and purpose, your voice can become a brand that not only earns money but inspires and informs others along the way.

Disclaimer

The side hustle ideas shared on this page are for general information and inspiration only.
We have no affiliation with the platforms or companies mentioned, and results can vary.
Earning money online carries some risk. Income is never guaranteed, and success often depends on time, effort, and personal circumstances.
Always research each opportunity carefully before getting involved.