Podcasting has become an increasingly popular medium for content creators, businesses, and individuals looking to share their voices, stories, and ideas with the world. However, starting a podcast can come with its own set of costs, from recording in a studio to distributing your show on platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Let’s break down some of these costs.
1. How Much Does It Cost to Put a Podcast on Apple? And Spotify?
When it comes to publishing your podcast on Apple Podcasts, the cost is surprisingly affordable. Uploading your podcast to Apple is free, but if you want to offer subscriptions and premium content, you’ll need to join the Apple Podcasters Program, which costs $19.99 per year. This program allows you to earn 70% of revenue from subscriptions, minus tax.
As for Spotify, you can submit your podcast for free through Spotify for Podcasters. However, just like with Apple, you’ll need to host your podcast files somewhere, and that usually comes with its own costs depending on the hosting service you choose.
2. Do Podcasts Make Money?
Yes, podcasts can indeed make money, and they do so through a variety of ways. The most common methods include sponsorships and advertising, where businesses pay to have their products or services promoted during the podcast. Other revenue streams can include listener donations, merchandise sales, live show tickets, and premium content or subscription fees. The amount of money a podcast can make varies greatly and depends on factors such as audience size, engagement, and the monetization strategies used.
3. How Much Does It Cost to Use a Song in a Podcast?
The cost of using a song in a podcast can vary widely and depends on several factors, including the specific song, the artist, and how much of the song you plan to use. In general, you’ll need to obtain a license to use copyrighted music in your podcast, and these licenses can range from a few dollars to several hundred dollars per use.
However, there are also many royalty-free music libraries available where you can purchase songs for a one-time fee or access a variety of tracks for a monthly subscription. These can be a more affordable option for podcasters on a budget.
While starting a podcast does come with certain costs, it’s an investment that can pay off in the long run. By understanding these costs upfront, you can better plan your podcasting journey and set yourself up for success.
Interested in starting a podcast or upleveling your existing show? Schedule your free discovery call with our expert production team at PS Studios.
During this call we will discuss your goals, timeline, and how we can help. We work with clientele across the country and look forward to chatting with you!