I didn’t plan on becoming a podcaster.
My first podcast was meant to be a one-season project—a way to support the readers of my book and give them space to feel seen, heard, and supported. Mainstream media gave my book plenty of attention, but their coverage stayed surface-level, carefully avoiding words like “vagina” or anything remotely taboo.
But my audience wasn’t afraid of those conversations—they were craving them.
So, I set up a DIY mic on my kitchen table, juggled life with two kids (under 2), and hit record. What happened next? That “one-and-done” podcast opened doors I didn’t know existed. It didn’t just continue the conversations—it created a platform for change.
Since then, I’ve learned that podcasting doesn’t have to take months—or years—to get right. With the right steps, you can launch a podcast that makes an impact or start monetising an existing one in just seven days.
Here’s how to make it happen.
1. The Launch Plan: Start Smart, Not Perfect
Too many would-be podcasters waste months debating equipment, software, and cover art. But here’s the truth: your audience doesn’t care about any of that. They care about your voice and what you have to say.
Here’s how to cut through the noise and launch in a week:
- Day 1: Clarify Your Why
What’s the purpose of your podcast? Whether it’s building a brand, sharing your expertise, or creating community, your “why” will guide every decision. - Day 2: Know Your Audience
Picture one person you want to reach. What do they need? What keeps them up at night? Speak directly to them in every episode. - Day 3-4: Plan and Record
Outline your first three episodes. Keep them short (10-20 minutes) and focused. Then, record in a quiet space using basic tools like a USB mic or even your smartphone. - Day 5: Edit Without Overthinking
Don’t aim for perfection—aim for clarity. Use tools like Riverside.fm and Descript to edit and clean up your audio. - Day 6: Choose Your Platform
Host your podcast on your selected platform. We like Podbean. These services are affordable and distribute your show to major directories like Spotify and Apple Podcasts. - Day 7: Launch with Confidence
Don’t wait for the “perfect moment.” Share your podcast with your audience and invite them to listen. You’ll improve as you go, but you can’t improve without starting.
2. The Monetisation Plan: Value Over Vanity
Most podcasters focus on download numbers, but that’s not where the money is. Monetisation comes from partnerships, not metrics. Here’s how to start:
- Define Your Unique Value
What makes your podcast different? Is it your niche, expertise, or audience? Use this to position yourself as a valuable partner for brands. - Craft a Clear Pitch
Reach out to potential sponsors or collaborators with a one-page pitch. Highlight your audience, your show’s focus, and how a partnership can create mutual value. - Start Small but Strategic
Don’t wait for 10,000 downloads. One of my clients landed a five-figure sponsorship with fewer than 500 listeners per episode by focusing on alignment over audience size. - Offer Creative Opportunities
Beyond ads, think about co-branded episodes, giveaways, or affiliate partnerships that align with your audience’s interests.
For more insights on how to shift your focus from downloads to dollars, explore Why Downloads Don’t Equal Dollars: Unlocking the True Value of Podcast Partnerships.
3. Common Myths That Hold Podcasters Back
Let’s bust some myths that might be stopping you:
- Myth: “I need expensive equipment to start.”
Truth: You can launch with a $50 mic and free software. Your content matters more than your tech. - Myth: “I need a big audience to monetize.”
Truth: Brands care more about relevance than reach. Even niche audiences can attract high-value partners. - Myth: “I need to be perfect before I launch.”
Truth: Your first episode won’t be perfect—and that’s okay. Podcasting is a journey of growth.
Why Podcasting Is Your Power Move
Podcasting isn’t just about creating content—it’s about building a platform that connects, inspires, and drives change.
When I started, I was just a mum with a message, sitting at my kitchen table. Today, I’ve worked with global brands like Toyota and Huggies, helped podcasters launch with confidence, and shown that even the smallest shows can make the biggest impact.
And here’s what I want you to know: you can do it, too.
Your Next Step
Whether you’re dreaming of starting a podcast or wondering how to monetize the one you already have, the time to act is now.
Launch confidently. Monetize strategically. Create impact.
Because the world doesn’t need another generic podcast—it needs yours.
