I work for Libsyn.com ( the oldest, largest podcast media hosting company - get a free month using the coupon code sopfree). I received this email today

I am starting a podcast with a few friends and we are currently looking at different hosting sites for our show. We are new to podcasting so we're trying to find the most user-friendly hosting platform that also allows us to turn this into at least a part-time job. According to my research Libsyn is the best at monetizing a podcast. I was wondering if you would be able to answer a few questions for us to help determine if Libsyn is the right fit? (name redacted)

If this is your first concern, there is a likely chance that you're not going to make it as a podcaster.

Musicians start playing horrible places to "pay their dues." Many businesses go out of business due to lack of customers. Start a podcast is easy. Starting a GOOD podcast takes work. If you have the passion for your topic, and the passion to serve your audience, you'll make it. If your goal is fast money then you may be doomed.

In the book Beyond Powerful Radio Valerie Geller states that in Radio it can take three years to build a loyal audience. Many people don't want to hear that. It is going to take time.

How Many Downloads Should Your Podcast Get?

I have a formula for this:

The value in the episode multiplied by the amount of intelligent marketing equals the total number of downloads.

Value X Promotion = Downloads.

Go in With Your Eyes Wide Open

I don't mean to rain on your parade. I want you to know what it takes so your expectations are realistic and you make it through when many people quit. I want to help you avoid burnout, and doing things that make you seem busy but are not productive.

The bottom line is if your first question when you start a podcast is how soon can I start making money, you're headed in the wrong direction and very likely going to waste your time and money.

Work With Me

Join the School of Podcasting or let me be your podcast mentor

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