Many podcasters assume that you can’t monetize until you have thousands of listeners per episode.
That’s completely false.
Reality: You only need the right audience
Tip: Focus on niche audiences—they’re more likely to pay for premium content and services.
Many podcasters believe sponsorships and ads are the only ways to make money—but they’re actually one of the least profitable methods.
Reality: Direct monetization makes you more money
Quick Win: If you have a coaching or consulting offer, mention it in every episode instead of waiting for sponsors.
Some podcasters think only certain categories make money, like business or personal development.
Not true.
Reality: Niche podcasts are often more profitable
Tip: Choose a specific niche with engaged listeners over a broad, oversaturated category.
Many podcasters delay monetization because they think they need more experience or a bigger backlog of episodes.
Reality: You can monetize from episode one
Quick Win: Launch your podcast with a lead magnet or membership offer from day one.
With the rise of YouTube podcasts and video content, some podcasters believe that audio-only podcasts are dead.
Reality: Audio podcasts are still highly profitable
Tip: If video content overwhelms you, focus on great audio content first.
Many new podcasters assume you need to be famous to make real money from a podcast.
Reality: Authority beats fame
Quick Win: Position yourself as an expert in a specific niche—authority drives revenue, not popularity.
Some podcasters delay monetization because they think it requires complex systems and too much effort.
Reality: Simple monetization strategies work best
Tip: Focus on ONE monetization strategy at a time and refine it before adding more.
If you’ve been waiting to monetize your podcast, chances are one of these myths has been holding you back. The truth is, you don’t need a massive audience, big sponsors, or years of experience—you just need the right strategy.
Want a step-by-step guide to podcast monetization?
Get the Podcast Profit Playbook™ and learn how to turn your podcast into a highly profitable business—no matter your audience size.
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Donna Kunde
Donna Kunde is a podcast host, radio personality (in 184 countries), and co-founder of IBGR.network. She's the co-author of THE INFLUENCERS FORMULA and has produced over 15,000 podcasts (with 1.3M+ downloads), several in the top 100. Donna is also a public speaker, one of Virginia's top 50 Women Leaders, and received the Lead and Lift Others Culture award from John Maxwell. From stages around the world, Donna has reached the ears of millions.
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