Episode 532 - Sorry Your Wrong Podcast Guru - Your Podcast Does Not Need To Be A Business to be Credible
In this episode, Dave pushes back against a rising narrative in the podcasting space that claims a show is not credible unless it functions as a business. Reacting to advice from a so-called guru, Dave calls out the damaging assumption that a podcast only matters once it makes money. He highlights how out of touch this perspective is with the reality of independent creators.
Drawing from the Independent Podcaster Report 2025, Dave explains that eighty five percent of indie podcasters make no money from their show. Of the small group that does, most barely break even. Only a tiny eight percent earn enough to consider podcasting a primary income source. Yet this minority is often the loudest, appearing on stages, writing books and shaping the conversation about what success should look like.
Dave argues that treating the eight percent as the standard misleads new podcasters and discourages the ninety two percent who create for passion, community, or personal fulfillment. He rejects the idea that monetization defines credibility. For many creators, podcasts are hobbies, creative outlets or ways to connect with listeners, and those motivations are entirely valid.
He also cautions that monetizing comes with obligations. Sponsors may expect oversight, restrictions or consistent publishing schedules that remove the freedom many podcasters cherish. Money can be helpful, but it can also create pressure and limit creative control.
Dave emphasizes that credibility comes from showing up, serving an audience and offering value. Whether a podcast brings in revenue or not, a creator who impacts even one listener is credible. Podcasting has always been a space without gatekeepers, and he urges the community to keep it that way.
The episode closes with encouragement for podcasters of all levels. Whether monetized or not, your voice matters. You do not need to fit into the eight percent to belong in the industry. Dave reminds listeners that the show and community remain free, while offering optional coaching for those who want more direct guidance.
Key takeaway: Credibility in podcasting is earned through meaning, consistency and impact, not through monetization. The majority of independent podcasters do not make money, and that does not make their work any less real or valuable.
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