Did you know a third of Americans listen monthly with some averaging 6:37 hours a week! Personally I love cracking open the new episode of my favourite shows to hear about culture, science and silly ramblings.
How do podcasts make money?
Advertisements often play before and during a show, but ads aren’t the best way for a podcast to earn dough. First of all, they’re annoying to listeners and if you add too many, you’ll lose some of your audience. Selling custom printed merchandise is a smart way to make earn an income with your podcast without bugging your listeners with ads. We at Artik have been printing custom t-shirts (and tons of other merch and apparel) in Toronto since 1985, we put this article together to help podcasters earn some money on live tours and during pledge drives.
Custom Printed T-Shirts
Custom printed tees are a smart option – get a creative design made that incorporates your logo and some fun references that your fans will appreciate.
Customized Tote Bags
Screen printed tote bags are perfect as podcast merch – they’re one size fits all, affordable and fun to show off around town. Come up with a simple design that will last the test of time.
Branded Mugs
Mugs are great for the home or workplace. Making branded mugs can help spread the word about your show in the coziest way.
Podcasty Water Bottles
Custom printed water bottles are perfect for desks and people on the go. Make a good looking design that your audience will love!
How Judge John Hodgman does merch
The merch above is from Judge John Hodgman, a lovely show where petty disputes between friends are settled by a “Judge” who dispenses justice. The show has been a hit with a huge listener base since 2010, and they earn money from live tours, books and merchandise sales.
What this show does well is make a ton of different merch, from branded metal lapel pins to tote bags, shirts and more. A variety of designs and products ensures that listeners can find the merch they want.
In conclusion…
Don’t just think of merchandise as a way to make some cash off your listeners. That attitude won’t get you anywhere!
Instead, ask your listeners what they want and make awesome merchandise that people will love. Your listeners are on your team, just give them a fun way to support your show!