You can totally monetize a podcast even if your audience is smaller and niche. It's like having a tiny but super passionate fan club instead of a massive crowd that’s half-asleep. Today, we’re chatting with Ray Arnett from aroundthelayout.com, who lives, eats, and breathes the world of model railroads. He’s got some wild ideas about partnerships that don’t rely on the usual sponsor route, and trust me, it’s more interesting than it sounds.

Think making money off a podcast is just for the big shots? Well, let's pop that bubble! This episode digs into how even those tucked away in the tiniest of niches can make some cash. If you're a model train enthusiast with a handful of loyal listeners, you’re in for a treat.

Ray Arnott Shares All the Lessons

Ray's not just talking numbers; he’s all about engagement and connections, proving that sometimes having a smaller audience means having a more dedicated one. Forget about chasing those elusive sponsorship deals; Ray's got a different game plan. He shares how forming partnerships with like-minded businesses has been the real money-maker for him. So grab your conductor's hat and hop on board as we explore the wild world of niche podcast monetization. Get ready to learn that with the right approach, even a handful of listeners can lead to big bucks!

• Monetizing a podcast isn't just for the big names; even small niche audiences can cash in.
• Engaged listeners are worth their weight in gold, no matter the size of your audience.
• Finding the right marketing partners who share your vision can be a game changer.
• Creating a community in your niche can lead to unexpected sponsorship opportunities.
• Never take your community for granted.
• It's not about having a large audience; it's about having the RIGHT audience.
• Underserved communities need a safe place to connect with like-minded people.

Links referenced in this episode:

• schoolofpodcasting.com
• aroundthelayout.com
• Heartbeat Community Tool
• Redirect.Pizza (aff)
• Cancer and Comedy Podcast
• School of Podcasting Affiliate Program

Mentioned in this episode:

Check Out Dave's Newsletter With Behind the Scenes Content

In each issue of Podcasting Observations, I share my thoughts on what is happening in the podcasting space, my latest content, and things that have caught my eye. I also may ask for your opinion. Join the free community

Podcasting Observations

Question of the Month: Where Do You Get Ideas For Your Podcast?

I saw this in a Facebook Group and thought it would be a question for all of us to chime in on. "What do you use... "How do you ... ...come up with ideas for your podcast? I need your answer by 4/25/25 Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/question

Question of the Month

Starting a podcast can be daunting. Fear of failure, uncertainty about where to begin, and doubts about your abilities can hold you back. But what if you had a...

Today, we’re exploring the world of partnerships versus sponsorships with the fabulous Stephanie Thompson. The key takeaway? Partnerships are better at growing your show. Forget just pocketing cash for a shout-out; we’re talking about meaningful connections that can actually grow your audience.

Stephanie explains how she snagged partners before she even had a following—zero downloads, folks! So, if you’ve been thinking about how to take your podcast game to the next level, this chat is for you. Grab your earphones and get ready to learn how to team up with brands that vibe with your message!

Check out The Riches are in the Niches With Harry Duran episode 767

• Partnerships are more about shared goals and values compared to one-off sponsorships.
• Monetization through partnerships can grow your audience, not just your pocketbook.
• It's all about the fit; the right audience and brand alignment are crucial for success.
• Don't promote brands you don't believe in; integrity is key in partnerships.
• Transparency with analytics and feedback helps maintain healthy brand relationships.
• Educate your partners about your audience to foster better collaboration and understanding.
• Stephanie did a "trial run" on her courses - BEFORE she launched.

• podcastexpertlab.com
• schoolofpodcasting.com
• profitfromyourpodcast.com
• castahead.net
• beyondbourbonstreet.com
• Profit From Your Podcast Book
• The Day My Vagina Broke Book

Mentioned in this episode:

Help When You Don't Know Where To Start

I get it. I talk to people looking to launch or grow their podcast. "“There’s too much gear/software — I don’t know what I need.” Microphones, mixers, hosting platforms, editing software — it’s easy to get lost. Analysis paralysis kicks in fast. I help podcasters. I've been doing it 20 years. Let me help. Dave Jackson schoolofpodcasting.com/join

School of Podcasting

Podcast Expert Lab

7-step podcast partnership success: This course pays for itself after just ONE partnership. Imagine getting paid to talk about what you love with brands that align with your audience. Complete this on-demand course at your own pace, using short, bite-sized videos and actionable tasks to boost your podcast growth and income. You don’t need to be famous—you just need the drive to grow and the strategy to earn!

Podcast Expoert Lab

Question of the Month: Where Do You Get Ideas For Your Podcast?

I saw this in a Facebook Group and thought it would be a question for all of us to chime in on. "What do you use... "How do you ... ...come up with ideas for your podcast? I need your answer by 4/25/25 Go to www.schoolofpodcasting.com/question