How To Make Money From Podcasting On Spotify

The world of podcasting is booming, and with platforms like Spotify at the forefront, the question on every creator’s mind is: “How do I make money from my podcast on Spotify?” While it’s a common question, the answers are more diverse and exciting than you might think. It’s not just about getting a check from Spotify; it’s about building a sustainable business around your content.

This guide will break down the primary ways podcasters can earn money on Spotify, detail the monetization requirements, and reveal the strategies that top creators use to build profitable shows.

Make Sure You Watch The Video Below On Monetization

I created this video to show how one podcast is monetizing on Spotify – but they’re not just making money there! In fact, they’re making money from seemingly everywhere!

Watch to the end for the a-ha moment!

The Core Monetization Methods on Spotify

Spotify has built a suite of tools directly into its platform, “Spotify for Podcasters,” designed to help you generate revenue. These methods fall into three main categories.

1. Podcast Subscriptions

This is a direct-to-fan model where you offer exclusive content to your most loyal listeners for a monthly fee.

• What it is: You can place specific episodes or bonus content (like behind-the-scenes access, extended interviews, or ad-free shows) behind a paywall. Your subscribers pay a recurring fee to unlock this premium content directly within the Spotify app.
• Why it works: It creates a predictable, recurring revenue stream and deepens the connection with your community. You have full control over the pricing and the perks you offer.

2. Listener Support (Donations)

If a subscription model feels too rigid, Spotify allows for one-time or recurring donations from your audience.

• What it is: This feature lets you add a “Support” button to your podcast’s page, allowing fans to send you money as a way of saying thanks. It’s a low-pressure way for your audience to contribute financially.
• Why it works: It gives casual listeners who appreciate your work an easy way to show support without committing to a monthly subscription.

3. Automated Ads (Spotify Podcast Ads)

This is the most hands-off approach to ad revenue, where Spotify inserts ads into your episodes for you.

• What it is: Based on factors like your audience size and demographics, Spotify’s technology will automatically place pre-recorded ads into natural breaks in your show. You get paid based on the number of ad impressions (listens).
• Why it works: It’s an accessible entry point into monetization. You don’t need to find sponsors yourself; you just opt-in, and Spotify handles the rest.

Spotify Podcast Monetization Requirements

Before you can enable these features, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria. While these can change, the current requirements generally include:

• Location: Monetization features are currently available to creators in the United States and other select international markets.
• Minimum Listeners: For automated ads, you typically need to have at least 100 listeners on Spotify within the last 60 days.
• Content Guidelines: Your podcast must adhere to Spotify’s content policies and terms of service.

The “Secret” Weapon of Top Podcasters: Host-Read Ads & Affiliate Marketing

While Spotify’s built-in tools are powerful, many of the highest-earning podcasters, like Joe Rogan, generate the bulk of their income from deals made outside of Spotify’s automated systems. This is where the real money is often made.

Host-Read Sponsorships: This is when the host reads an ad for a product or service during the show. Think about the last time you heard a podcaster talk about a VPN service, a meal delivery kit, or a web hosting platform. That was a host-read ad.

• How it works: You partner directly with a brand and agree on a rate. Because the endorsement comes directly from you, the host, it feels more authentic and is highly effective. This method bypasses Spotify’s ad system, meaning you keep a much larger share of the revenue.
• How to get them: Start by reaching out to brands that align with your podcast’s niche. As your show grows, you can join podcast advertising networks that connect creators with sponsors.

Affiliate Marketing: This is perhaps the most underrated and accessible monetization strategy for new podcasters.

• How it works: You connect your audience with a product or service and include a unique affiliate link in your episode’s show notes or on your website. When a listener makes a purchase through your link, you earn a commission. For example, a tech podcast could promote NordVPN and earn a significant commission on each sale, often without needing thousands of downloads to see a return.
• Why it’s powerful: You don’t need to meet any listener thresholds to start. You can join affiliate programs like Amazon Associates or partner with brands in your niche from day one.

Why Every Podcaster Needs a Website

Relying solely on Spotify is leaving money on the table. A dedicated website is the central hub of your podcasting business. It’s a platform you own and control, allowing you to:

• Drive Traffic: Direct listeners from your podcast to your website for show notes, transcripts, and bonus content.
• Build an Email List: An email list is a direct line to your audience, allowing you to notify them of new episodes and promotions without relying on an algorithm.
• Host Affiliate Offers: Your website is the perfect place to feature affiliate links, product recommendations, and resource pages that generate passive income.
• Improve Discoverability: A well-optimized website can rank on Google, attracting new, organic listeners who are searching for topics you cover.

By funneling your Spotify traffic to a website you control, you unlock limitless monetization opportunities that aren’t tied to Spotify’s platform requirements or revenue shares.

The Bottom Line: Can You Make Money from a Podcast on Spotify?

Yes, you can absolutely make money from a podcast on Spotify. See if you’re eligible, and the platform provides excellent tools to help you get started. However, the most successful podcasters use a hybrid approach. They leverage Spotify’s built-in subscriptions and ads while simultaneously building a robust business off-platform through host-read sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and a dedicated website.

Click here for my free podcast monetization guide

Start with the tools available, focus on growing your audience, and never underestimate the power of directing your listeners to a home base that you control.