So, you’ve finally launched that podcast. You’ve got a killer intro, a snazzy logo, and maybe even a couple of loyal listeners who tell you your voice is "so soothing." But after hours of editing and promoting, you might be asking: "How do I actually make money with podcasts?"

While sponsorships are the go-to for many creators, they usually require big download numbers. But what if you don’t have 10,000 downloads per episode yet? Enter the underdog hero: podcast affiliate marketing.

In today’s blog we will explain affiliate marketing, and why it must be part of your business strategy to monetise your podcasts.

What Is Affiliate Marketing?

Imagine you’re at a party, and someone asks, "Hey, where’d you get that awesome jacket?" You tell them where to buy it, and boom, the store slips you a thank-you tip for sending them a new customer.

Affiliate marketing works exactly like that, but online. You recommend a product or service using a special link, and when someone buys it, you earn a commission.

It’s like getting paid for being that friend who always knows the best restaurants, gadgets, or Netflix shows — but this time, your recommendations actually pay your bills (and maybe fund your pizza habit).

Why Affiliate Marketing Works So Well For Podcasts?

Podcasts have a unique superpower: trust. When people listen to you week after week, they start to feel like they know you personally. This deep connection makes them more likely to act on your recommendations compared to traditional ads or blog posts.

Affiliate marketing fits naturally into this relationship because you’re sharing something you (hopefully) believe in. You’re not pushing random mattress brands or energy drinks you wouldn’t touch in real life — you’re introducing helpful tools, books, or services that actually resonate with your audience.

Choosing The Right Affiliate Programs

One of the biggest podcast marketing tips is to pick products that match your niche. If you run a true crime podcast, a VPN or home security system might be a natural fit. If you host a wellness show, health supplements or meditation apps make more sense.

Don’t just jump at the highest commission rate. Instead, ask:

• Will this solve a problem for my listeners?
• Do I personally use or trust this product?
• Can I talk about it authentically without sounding like a late-night infomercial?

If the answer is yes, you’re on the right track.

How To Promote Affiliate Products Without Annoying Your Audience

We’ve all heard podcasts where the host awkwardly reads a 3-minute ad about a toothbrush mid-story. That’s exactly what we’re trying to avoid.

Here are a few ways to seamlessly integrate affiliate products:

• Organic mentions: Slip it into your storytelling or discussions naturally. “Oh, by the way, I started using this microphone stand I found on Amazon — total game changer!”
• Dedicated segments: Create a short, separate segment like “Things I’m loving this week.”
• Show notes: Add affiliate links in your show notes or episode descriptions so your audience can easily find what you recommend.
• Bonus content: Offer a special downloadable resource or guide that includes your affiliate links.

Track, Test, And Tweak

A big part of learning how to make money with podcasts is experimenting. Use trackable links or promo codes so you know what’s working and what’s flopping harder than your first episode intro.

Check your affiliate dashboards regularly to see which products convert and which ones just sit there looking pretty. You’ll start to understand your audience’s preferences and refine your promotions over time.

Don’t Forget The Legal Stuff

Before you go turning your episodes into a carnival of affiliate pitches, remember to disclose your partnerships. This builds trust and keeps you compliant with advertising guidelines. A simple, “Hey, some links in this episode may earn me a commission at no extra cost to you,” does the trick.

Combining Affiliate Marketing With Other Monetization Strategies

The best part? You don’t have to choose between sponsorships, memberships, or affiliate deals — you can mix and match. Some successful podcasters even start with affiliate marketing to prove they can drive sales, then leverage those results to land bigger sponsorships later.

Affiliate marketing is one of the smartest podcast marketing tips out there, especially if you’re just starting or have a niche audience. It’s flexible, requires zero up-front costs, and rewards you for promoting products you already believe in.

Start Turning "Hello Listeners" Into "Hello Dollars" Today!!

Podcasting is more than just a creative outlet — it can become a serious income stream if you play your cards right. By using podcast affiliate marketing, you can start generating revenue without waiting for a massive audience or a big-name sponsor to come knocking.

So, grab that mic, line up some awesome affiliate programs, and watch your hobby transform into a profitable passion. Because who doesn’t want to get paid to talk about the stuff they love?