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How to Make $1.2 Million A Year From a Podcast

By Jess Todtfeld, CSP

 

Ever wonder how a podcast can generate over $1.2 million a year? Stephen Bartlett spills all the details in this video. If you’re serious about using podcasting to build authority, grow an audience, and make serious cash, here’s what he shared, and what you need to know—without the fluff.

1. Start with What You Have—No Excuses

Bartlett didn’t start with a fancy studio or a big team. He recorded with a $100 mic, a laptop, and a duvet over his head for soundproofing. The key lesson? Start. You don’t need a perfect setup—just a great message and the commitment to get it out there.

2. Consistency is the Name of the Game

His early podcast episodes were sporadic—sometimes months apart. The result? Slow, inconsistent growth. But when he committed to releasing an episode every Monday at 7 AM, audience numbers 10X’d. The takeaway? Consistency isn’t just important—it’s everything.

3. Guests = Free Audience Expansion

At first, Bartlett’s podcast was just him. Then, he started bringing on big-name guests—each one exposing their audience to his show. It was a game-changer. Plus, he expanded to YouTube, another major discovery tool. Want to grow? Leverage guests and multiple platforms.

4. High Standards = Loyal Listeners

Bartlett is ruthless about quality. If an episode doesn’t deliver value, he deletes it—no matter who the guest is. His advice? Protect your audience’s time. When people trust you to deliver great content, they keep coming back.

5. Monetize Smart—Skip the Middleman

Instead of relying on podcast ad networks, he pitched brands directly—brands he actually used. The result?

  • Huel became his first sponsor.

  • Fiverr and MyEnergi followed.

  • He even became an investor in some of these brands.

By cutting out the middleman, he kept more of the profits and built real partnerships. Smart.

6. Depth Over Reach

Podcasting isn’t about quick hits—it’s about building deep relationships with your audience. Unlike fleeting social media posts, people remember podcast episodes. That kind of connection? Priceless.

7. Podcasting Will Level Up Your Communication Skills

Bartlett says podcasting made him a better speaker, storyteller, and thinker. Want to improve your confidence, sales skills, or ability to articulate ideas? Start talking into a mic.

8. Real Conversations = Real Relationships

Hosting deep, unfiltered conversations has led to friendships, business opportunities, and life-changing connections. His tip? Be real. Be vulnerable. Be yourself.

9. Scaling Beyond Audio: What’s Next?

Bartlett isn’t stopping. He’s launched live events, selling out Manchester’s Albert Hall. The lesson? Think bigger. A podcast can be the foundation for something huge.

Final Thoughts: Your Move

Stephen Bartlett’s success didn’t happen by accident. He started small, stayed consistent, delivered value, and monetized strategically. If you’re thinking about launching (or leveling up) your podcast, what’s holding you back?

… and make sure to check out his podcast / subscribe. He has some really great content.

🚀 Want to build authority and attract opportunities through media? That’s what we do at Media Ambassadors. DM me if you want to turn your podcast or media presence into a powerful business tool.

 

#PodcastGrowth #PodcastMonetization #ContentMarketing #BrandBuilding #PodcastingSuccess #StephenBartlett #MediaMarketing #AuthorityBuilding #EntrepreneurMindset #ContentStrategy #MarketingTips #PodcastStrategy #SocialMediaGrowth #PersonalBranding #BusinessGrowth

Podcasting Trends Summary for March 3, 2025

  1. AI-Generated Podcasts Respond to Current Events: Following recent significant events, AI-generated podcasts like “Pager Protocol” have been swiftly produced, showcasing AI’s growing role in rapid content creation. ​wired.com

  2. Netflix Explores Video Podcasting: Netflix is considering expanding into video podcasts to incorporate more creator-driven content, potentially offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional TV series. ​businessinsider.com

  3. YouTube’s Ascendancy in Podcasting: YouTube has surpassed Spotify as the leading podcasting platform, with over 1 billion monthly users consuming podcast content, reflecting a shift towards video podcasting. ​channelnews.com.au

  4. Cam and Ali Daddo Relaunch Podcast: Australian couple Cam and Ali Daddo have relaunched their podcast under the new name “The Heart of It,” focusing on candid conversations about relationships, love, and personal growth. ​podnews.net

  5. Rise of AI-Powered Podcast Production: The podcasting industry is increasingly adopting AI-driven content creation and personalization, enhancing listener experiences and streamlining production processes. ​forbes.com

  6. Interactive Podcasts Engage Audiences: Interactive podcasts are gaining traction, allowing listeners to influence content direction, thereby increasing engagement and offering a personalized experience. ​voicebooking.com

  7. Branded Podcasts on the Rise: Companies are increasingly producing branded podcasts as a marketing tool, leveraging the medium’s popularity to connect with audiences in a more personal and engaging manner. ​riverside.fm

  8. Voice Search Optimization for Podcasts: With the growing use of voice-activated devices, optimizing podcasts for voice search is becoming essential, ensuring content is easily discoverable through voice commands. ​riverside.fm

  9. Always-On Podcast Formats: The trend towards “always-on” podcast formats is growing, with creators producing continuous content rather than seasonal episodes, maintaining consistent audience engagement. ​quillpodcasting.com

  10. Solo Podcasting Gains Popularity: There is a rise in solo podcasting, where individual hosts create content independently, offering unique perspectives and fostering a direct connection with listeners. ​hello.podium.page

Why Podcasting Is the New Public Speaking (And How It Builds Authority Faster)

For decades, public speaking was the ultimate authority builder. If you were on stage at a big industry conference, you were seen as an expert. If you gave a TED Talk, your credibility skyrocketed.

But in 2025, the game has changed.

Podcasting is now the most powerful tool for professionals—doctors, lawyers, financial advisors—to establish authority, build trust, and attract high-value clients. And the best part? Unlike public speaking, you don’t have to travel, prepare slides, or stand in front of a crowd.

Let’s break down why podcasting has become the fastest way to build your reputation and how you can leverage it with almost no extra effort.

1. Public Speaking Had Gatekeepers. Podcasting Doesn’t.

Public speaking used to require an invite. You had to pitch event organizers, get approved, and wait for an opportunity. Even then, you were limited to one audience at a time.

Podcasting removes that barrier. You own your platform and can speak to your audience whenever you want, as often as you want.

And with millions of professionals now consuming business-related podcasts daily, your audience is already listening. You just need to show up.

2. A Podcast Lasts Forever. A Speech Disappears.

A keynote speech is over the moment you step off stage. Maybe a few people remember a quote or share a LinkedIn post about it. But in most cases, the impact is short-lived.

A podcast episode, on the other hand, lives forever. It can be replayed, shared, repurposed, and continue bringing in clients months or even years later.

Think of it like this:

  • A public speaking event reaches hundreds of people once.
  • A podcast reaches thousands—on demand, anytime, anywhere.

It’s scalable authority.

3. Your Ideal Clients (or Audience) Are Already Listening

Doctors, lawyers, and financial advisors might think, “My audience doesn’t listen to podcasts.”

But here’s the reality:

  • 45% of business decision-makers say they listen to podcasts regularly.
  • More than half of professionals say they trust a podcast host more than a traditional ad.
  • High-income individuals (the very clients you want) are the most likely to consume podcasts.

Your ideal clients are already listening to industry insights on their commute, at the gym, or while working. The question is: are they hearing from you or someone else?

4. Podcasting Builds Authority in Less Time Than You Think

One of the biggest misconceptions about podcasting is that it’s time-consuming.

But here’s the reality: if you can talk for 30 minutes a week, you can have a high-quality podcast without doing any of the technical work.

That’s where Media Ambassadors comes in.

We handle everything—from content strategy to editing to distribution. All you have to do is show up and share your expertise.

Think of it like being a guest speaker at a conference—except instead of prepping for months, traveling, and speaking to one audience, you record from your office and reach people for years to come.

5. Podcasting Isn’t Just About Content—It’s a Networking Machine

One hidden benefit of podcasting? It’s the ultimate relationship builder.

When you have a podcast, you now have a reason to invite high-value guests—potential clients, referral partners, or industry leaders—onto your show.

  • A lawyer can interview top business owners and build relationships that turn into clients.
  • A financial advisor can invite real estate professionals and expand their network.
  • A doctor can bring on specialists and become the trusted voice in their niche.

It’s an easy way to get in front of decision-makers without the awkward cold emails or sales pitches.

Ready to Build Authority the Smart Way?

If you’ve ever considered public speaking as a way to grow your reputation, podcasting is the next evolution—but faster, easier, and more scalable.

And the best part? You don’t have to do any of the heavy lifting.

At Media Ambassadors, we specialize in helping doctors, lawyers, and financial advisors launch professional, high-impact podcasts—without the stress of editing, branding, or distribution.

🚀 Want to see how it works? Let’s chat. Drop a comment or DM me if you’re curious about starting your own show.

What’s Next?

I’d love to hear from you:

💬 Do you listen to podcasts in your industry? 🎙 If you had a podcast, what would you talk about? 📢 What’s stopping you from starting one?

Drop your thoughts below! 👇

Podcasting Trends Daily Summary for March 1, 2025

  1. YouTube Surpasses 1 Billion Monthly Podcast Users: YouTube has announced that over 1 billion users are now engaging with podcast content monthly, solidifying its position as a dominant platform in the podcasting industry. ​blog.youtube

  2. Amazon’s Wondery Reduces Staff: Amazon has implemented staff reductions within its Wondery podcast unit, known for popular series such as “Dr. Death” and “Business Wars.” ​reuters.com

  3. Fox Corporation Acquires Red Seat Ventures: Fox Corp has acquired digital media company Red Seat Ventures, which collaborates with notable personalities like Megyn Kelly and Tucker Carlson, aiming to strengthen its presence in the podcast market. ​

  4. Netflix Explores Video Podcasting: Netflix is considering expanding into video podcasts as part of its strategy to incorporate more creator-driven content, potentially offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional TV series. ​businessinsider.com

  5. Alix Earle’s Podcast Dropped by Unwell Network: Alix Earle’s podcast “Hot Mess” has been removed from Alex Cooper’s Unwell Network, ending their partnership that began in September 2023. ​thecut.com

  6. Dave Portnoy Criticizes Gavin Newsom’s New Podcast: Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy has publicly criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom following the announcement of Newsom’s new podcast aimed at engaging in conversations with individuals holding differing viewpoints. ​foxnews.com

  7. AI-Driven Content Creation Gains Traction in Podcasting: The podcasting industry is increasingly adopting AI-driven content creation and personalization, enhancing listener experiences and streamlining production processes. ​quillpodcasting.com+2forbes.com+2riverside.fm+2

  8. Global Podcast Audience Projected to Reach 651.7 Million by 2027: The number of podcast listeners worldwide is expected to grow significantly, reaching an estimated 651.7 million by 2027. ​backlinko.com+1riverside.fm+1

  9. Chat Podcasts Dominate the Market: In 2024, chat-based podcasts have become the most prevalent format, engaging listeners with dynamic and varied content, while video integration has grown to 33% of podcast consumption in the U.S. ​wired.com+1nymag.com+1

  10. Podcasts Embrace Video Formats: There is a growing trend of podcasts incorporating video elements, with platforms like TikTok contributing to the rise of short, viral video clips of podcast content. ​nymag.com

The Link Between Sleep & Weight Loss

Available for Interviews: Dr. Franchell Hamilton

Dr. Franchell Hamilton, MD, FACS, FASMBS, FOMA, is the Founder of NeuroSwitch™ Weigh Loss–a place for people to receive treatments ranging from bariatric surgery and medical weight loss to hormone therapy. Dr. Hamiltion recently released, Curiosity is the Best Weight Loss Medicine: Observations from a Bariatric Surgeon. 

What Dr. Hamilton could say on
Sleep and Weight Loss:

Poor sleep habits are an independent risk factor for weight gain: studies show reduced sleep contributes to the obesity epidemic.
    • Studies compared people dieting who slept 8.5 hours a day versus 5.5 hours a day (all being equal) the more sleep and the more calories (energy) are burned.
    • People who have healthy sleep habits tend to be thinner.

Continue reading “The Link Between Sleep & Weight Loss”

6 Solutions for Combatting Teacher Shortages (and Not Lowering Standards for Teachers)

Available for Interviews:  Nadine Levitt

Nadine Levitt is an education advocate, speaker, and the CEO & Founder of WURRLYedu, an educational technology platform. Nadine specializes in the social-emotional curriculum (SEL), and she is also the author of the children’s book, My Mama Says Inside Me Lives a Village. 

What Nadine Levitt can say in an interview about why
Lowering standards for teachers is NOT the best solution for combatting teacher shortages:

    • Ed Week recently reported that States are relaxing teacher certification rules to combat teacher shortages, pointing to an alarming trend of teachers leaving the profession.
    • But lowering standards for entry is clearly not the best idea if we are trying to attract the best people for the job. Teachers and school leaders are crucially important in our economy and the ongoing innovation of our country, so perhaps we should: 

Continue reading “6 Solutions for Combatting Teacher Shortages (and Not Lowering Standards for Teachers)”

Suicide Is Not a Choice and Other Myths Debunked

Interview: Dr. Colleen Cira, Psy.D.

Dr. Cira has worked with hundreds of people struggling with suicidal thoughts. Unfortunately, she also had a family member commit suicide, so she understands the tragedy of this both personally and professionally.

What Dr. Colleen Cira Can Say in an
Interview About Suicide:

Suicide is so confusing and difficult to understand because suicide sounds awful to someone who isn’t in tremendous amounts of pain. The idea of taking your own life sounds terrifying to most of us and then all of the consequences that come with suicide (loved ones grieving, feelings of failure, etc) make it sound pretty unappealing if you’ve never been in so much pain that death sounds like a relief. But someone’s profound pain coupled with the hopelessness of feeling like the pain is never going away can make death sound/feel like an answer. The problem is that most pain DOES go away, but sometimes it takes a lot longer than what is ideal which leaves people in a tough position.

Continue reading “Suicide Is Not a Choice and Other Myths Debunked”

Health Benefits of Spring Cleaning? Here Are 4 Reasons How

Available for Interviews: Dr. Franchell Hamilton

Dr. Franchell Hamilton, MD, FACS, FASMBS, FOMA is the Founder of NeuroSwitch™ Weigh Loss–a place for people to receive treatments ranging from bariatric surgery and medical weight loss to hormone therapy. Dr. Hamiltion is also the author of two books, Transformation Is a Mindset: The Journey to Changing Your Input and Your World and And the Best Diet Is . . . .

What Dr. Hamilton could say on
Spring Cleaning for Health & Wellness:

It’s warming up outside. Out with the old, in with the new. Open those windows and breath in spring! It’s also that time of year when we all roll up our sleeves and get to work doing our annual spring cleaning. But are there any health benefits to this annual ritual? Absolutely! Here are 4 ways that spring cleaning can benefit us—mind, body, and spirit:

Continue reading “Health Benefits of Spring Cleaning? Here Are 4 Reasons How”

How to Have More Compassion in a Combative World

Available for Interviews: Dr. Colleen Cira, Psy.D.

Dr. Colleen Cira, Psy.D., is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who specializes in Women and Trauma and has worked with hundreds of people struggling with mental health issues.

People often struggle with compassion—not only for others but also for themselves.  Here are a few things we can try to build more kindness and empathy into our lives and the lives of the people who surround us:

1) Just listen. Don’t interrupt with advice, with silver linings, or with solutions. Just listen. Truly listen. Don’t think about what you’re going to say next or how they’re doing it wrong, or what they could be doing differently. Just listen and take in what they’re saying to you.

Continue reading “How to Have More Compassion in a Combative World”

Let’s Have an Open Dialogue About the Stigma of Mental Illness

Interview: Dr. Colleen Cira, Psy.D.

Dr. Colleen Cira is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist as well as the Founder and Executive Director of Cira Center for Behavioral Health, PC. She is an anxiety and trauma expert as well as a consultant, supervisor, speaker, writer and advocate.

Talking points for an interview:

How Stigmas and Misconceptions on Mental Illness Impact Quality of Life, Opportunity, and Wellness
      • For the longest time, mental health difficulties have been equated to being “crazy.”  Women who struggle with mental health are typically seen as “hysterical” or “weak” and men can be perceived the same way or as “aggressive” and “angry,” depending on the presentation.  And when we decide that someone’s experience isn’t valid for whatever reason (weakness, vulnerability, being “hysterical” being angry, etc.), not only do we disempower them, we also devalue them as a human being.
      • That experience—of constantly feeling sidelined, not taken seriously, and devalued—can create a vicious cycle where people feel destined to fail or be misunderstood so they stop trying, which only increases people’s negative perceptions which only increases that person’s hopelessness and lack of effort to change things.
      • I dream of a world where tears are a sign of strength, not weakness.  Where genuine human connection, with your clients and colleagues, is seen as an asset, not a liability.  Where being honest about the things that matter to you is seen as courageous, not unprofessional. Where vulnerability is seen as brave, not as overly sensitive or unhinged.  Where periods of anxiety, sadness, or relational upset, are seen as HUMAN, not pathological.
        Acceptance Versus Judgement
        in Today’s Society
        • Old habits die hard, don’t they!  America, and the world really, has a long history of stigmatizing folks who struggle with mental illness and because we’ve been doing that for a long time, it’s built into our brains, our places of work, our families and every other system we can think of.
        • When a problem is systemic—like this or racism, sexism, homophobia, etc.—it takes a lot of very conscious and deliberate effort by lots of different people over the course of decades to make individual changes and systemic changes that eventually lead to societal changes.
        • Like most things, we’ve gotten a lot better about understanding mental health and therefore being more accepting of it, but we still have a long way to go.

 

Available for Interviews: Dr. Colleen Cira, Psy.D.

Dr. Colleen Cira received both her Masters and Doctorate from The Illinois School of Professional Psychology and is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in the State of Illinois.  She’s the Founder and Executive Director of Cira Center for Behavioral Health, PC, a boutique group practice specializing in Women and Trauma with locations in Chicago and Oak Park.

She was named one of the “Top 100 Women in Chicago Making a Difference,” by Today’s Chicago Woman. Dr. Cira is a trauma and anxiety expert, clinical supervisor, writer, speaker, consultant, activist, wife, and Mommy to two little ones.

Contact:
Jo Allison
PR Managing Editor
MEDIA AMBASSADORS
Success In Media, Inc.
Jo@SuccessInMedia.com