Top 5 Sites That Make You Money from Podcasts
Podcasting has reached astronomical levels of popularity in recent years, and for good reason—it's intimate, compelling, and more and more lucrative. Whether you're a casual hobbyist or a professional podcast creator, there comes a point when everyone wonders the same thing: "How do I make money with my podcast?"
Fortunately, there are a number of platforms that can assist you in monetizing your voice and turning your hobby into money. In this post, we will guide you through the top 5 platforms that enable you to earn from your podcast and why each one is a good option.
What to Look for in a Podcast Monetization Platform
You should be aware of what features to look out for before getting started:
Audience Requirements – Certain platforms require a certain number of listeners.
Monetization Models – Advertisements, subscriptions, tips, or member-only content.
Ease of Integration – How seamless the platform is with your podcast host.
Payout Thresholds – Minimum earnings prior to cashing out.
Support and Analytics – Features to assist you in growing and maximizing revenue.
Now, let's dive into the most lucrative platforms for podcasters.
1. Patreon
Overview:
Patreon is a leading membership platform for creators of all types, including podcasters. It allows you to provide exclusive content, early access, and bonus episodes to subscribing members.
Monetization Features:
Tiered monthly subscriptions
The ability to share private RSS feeds
Integration with platforms such as Podbean and Anchor
Best For:
Podcasters who have an active, loyal fanbase
Pros:
Complete control of your pricing and rewards
Recurring income stream
Direct connection with fans
Cons:
Takes time and effort to update content for listeners
There are platform fees (5–12%)
2. Spotify for Podcasters (previously Anchor)
Overview:
Spotify for Podcasters is very easy to use to begin, host, and monetize a podcast. It offers options for ads as well as listener support.
Monetization Features:
Automated sponsorships and ad insertion
Listener support through recurring tips
Integrated editing and analytics features
Best For:
New to mid-tier podcasters who want a plug-and-play experience
Pros:
No minimum listenership for certain ad programs
Easy and mobile-friendly setup
Publishes to all major platforms (Spotify, Apple, Google, etc.)
Cons:
Ad inventory can be limited for smaller shows
Mainly US-centric monetization opportunities
3. Apple Podcasts Subscriptions
Overview:
Apple Podcasts Subscriptions enables creators to sell premium content directly to listeners within the Apple ecosystem. This encompasses early access, ad-free programs, and bonus episodes.
Monetization Features:
Paid subscriptions and trials
Custom plans (monthly, annually)
Easy to handle through Apple Podcasts Connect
Best For:
Creators serving iOS users and high-end audio listeners
Advantages:
High brand trust
Smooth experience for Apple device users
In-depth subscription analytics
Disadvantages:
Apple charges a 30% commission in the initial year
Lack of Android support
4. Podbean Monetization
Description:
Podbean is a hosting platform for podcasts that also offers several monetization features, including ads, listener tips, and premium content podcasts.
Monetization Features:
Podbean Ads Marketplace
Paywall-protected premium podcast episodes
Live audio streaming with virtual ticketing or tipping
Best For:
Podcasters seeking versatile monetization tools in a single place
Advantages:
Dynamic ad insertion
Inbuilt payment gateway
Provides live podcast events
Drawbacks:
Can have a somewhat complicated interface for novices
Premium features incur extra expenses
5. Supercast
Overview:
Supercast enables creators to operate paid subscription podcasts with private RSS feeds. It's perfect for establishing a recurring revenue stream from premium content.
Monetization Features:
Simple setup of paid memberships
Email capture and analytics of the audience
Is compatible with your current podcast host
Best For:
Business podcasters, coaches, or educators providing unique knowledge or value
Pros:
Listeners have a smooth subscription experience
Feature-rich analytics and CRM tools
Branding is customizable
Cons:
Less popular among the general public
Has monthly fees based on usage
Quick Comparison Table
Platform\tAds\tSubscriptions\tListener Support\tIdeal For\tIntegration
Patreon\t❌\t✅\t✅\tCreators/Fanbase\tMedium
Spotify\t✅\t✅\t✅\tBeginners\tHigh
Apple\t❌\t✅\t❌\tApple users\tHigh
Podbean\t✅\t✅\t✅\tPros/Live Shows\tHigh
Supercast\t❌\t✅\t❌\tPremium Creators\tMedium
Bonus Tips to Maximize Podcast Revenue
Share your monetized links in episode descriptions and show notes
Reference subscription benefits in your intro/outro
Leak social media teasers to send people to your premium content
Provide tiered membership options to appeal to various fans
Gather email addresses to cultivate a strong subscriber base
✅ Last Words
Monetizing a podcast no longer needs millions of listeners. With the proper platform and approach, even niche programs can generate steady income. Whether you opt for Patreon's community model or Apple's premium subscription option, the difference is in providing tangible value to your listeners.
Begin trying, monitor what gets results, and recall—your voice is worth something. Now let's convert it into money.