Podcasts look effortless to listen to, which is exactly why so many people underestimate them. If you’re thinking about starting one as a side project, these are the questions worth answering first.
Can a podcast really make money?
Yes, but usually not in the way people imagine. Advertising and sponsorship money tends to go to shows with a large, steady audience. For most smaller podcasts, the money comes indirectly. The show builds trust with listeners, who then buy your course, hire you, book your services or click your affiliate links. Some shows also earn from listener memberships or paid bonus episodes, and a good podcast can bring speaking invitations and partnerships.
What should my show be about?
Something specific that you could talk about for a long time. “A podcast about money” is crowded and vague. “Money basics for people in their first job” gives listeners an instant reason to subscribe. Pick a subject where your knowledge or enthusiasm will still be strong after fifty episodes.
Do I need a co-host or guests?
Neither is required. Solo shows are the easiest to schedule but need solid preparation, since it’s just you holding attention. Interview shows bring fresh expertise each week, and guests often share their episode with their own followers, though booking them takes time. Co-hosted shows depend on genuine chemistry. Scripted, story-driven shows sound polished but take the most work.
How much does it cost to start?
Surprisingly little. A good USB microphone and a pair of headphones are the main purchases, and capable recording and editing software can be free. You’ll need a podcast host to store episodes and send them to apps like Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Some are free, and paid plans are usually modest.
Spend your money on sound quality first. Listeners will tolerate simple artwork, but echoey or noisy audio makes them switch off. A small room full of soft furnishings is a free fix for echo.
How long does each episode take?
Much longer than the episode itself. A thirty-minute show can involve planning, research, guest preparation, recording, editing, writing show notes, making artwork and short social clips, and promoting it once it’s live. Several hours per episode is normal.
How often should I publish?
As often as you can sustain for a long time. A fortnightly show that runs for two years will usually do better than a weekly show that stops after two months. Batching helps: record several episodes in one session and edit them together.
How do I find listeners?
New shows rarely grow on their own. What tends to work:
- Inviting guests who will share their episode
- Appearing as a guest on related podcasts
- Posting short clips on social media and YouTube
- Writing detailed show notes so episodes can be found in search
- Asking existing listeners to tell a friend
How long before it takes off?
Expect slow growth in the first year. The encouraging part is that most podcasts give up after a handful of episodes, so simply continuing puts you ahead of much of the competition.
So is it worth doing?
If you enjoy talking, interviewing and learning, and you can commit to a regular schedule for many months, a podcast can build a loyal audience and open doors other side hustles don’t. If you need quick income, it’s the wrong choice. Judge it over a year, not a few weeks.
About Shortcuts to Success
Practical, honest guides to earning extra money alongside your job. We cover freelancing, selling online, content income and local gigs, including the costs and risks most side hustle sites skip.