When you think of making big money on YouTube, podcasts probably don't come to mind — especially now that many creators are starting their own shows. 

 The format allows any and every niche to have its own space, and that's rare!

The hard part, however, is building up consistent views if you’re just starting out. After all, that’s the best way to 

 to monetize your podcast, and not just rely on advertising revenue?

Everything You Need to Know About Starting a YouTube Podcast

For example, have you noticed that some podcast hosts are reading advertisements aloud instead of sticking to YouTube's automated ones? Sometimes these ads come from small local businesses that aren't using Google ads to get noticed. They get more business by 

 to talk about their products and services, and these agreements are called brand deals (or sponsorships).

Before we get into roping in the sponsors and promotions, let's talk about how most podcasts increase their revenue and visibility right now. Vertical videos and clips are the best way to maximize your podcast's potential across all platforms. The downside, however, is that it can be tedious and complicated, especially for new creators.

 chooses the best moments from your podcasts with the help of viewer data and turns them into viral clips. No video editing required. And it's optimized for TikTok, Reels and Shorts. Try it out now!


So, how can you hop on the sponsorship wave? Keep reading to learn all about it, and earn a living from your YouTube podcast!

Understand the Basics: The Sponsor's Wishlist

, 62% of U.S. consumers listen to podcasts, and that number has risen over the last 8 years. But sponsors aren't looking to advertise to just anyone. They want to support podcasts that reach their customers and have thousands of engaged listeners. So, certain markers of success will give you the edge when it comes to landing sponsorships for your podcast. Here's what brands are looking for.

The specifics of who is listening to a podcast — age brackets, geographical locations, and overall interests — can help sponsors determine if your audience mirrors their target market.

How can I meet these requirements if I'm just starting out?

 And, we hear ya! But it's important to create a podcast you're passionate about and let the sponsors decide if 

 the right fit. After all, you can't change the basis of your show every week to try and land a deal from every brand. Stick to one niche and partner with companies in that industry.

Sponsors are on the lookout for channels with a healthy subscriber base and plenty of listeners/viewers. After all, they're investing in your reach and betting on your ability to amplify their message. So, more than anything, you'll want to choose a topic that:

Is popular (true crime, comedy, news, etc.)

It's easy to get swept up in listens and views, but engagement is more important than either of those metrics. Just think about it: If a brand is looking for sales (and not just exposure), it has to target communities that are 

 So, a podcast channel with a lively comment section, a flurry of likes, and thousands of shares will catch their attention!

 refers to how long viewers (or listeners) consume a video on average. And it's a big deal to podcast sponsors. If an episode is 60 minutes long, but an advertisement appears at the 20-minute mark, that means listeners have to consume 33% of the show to even realize a brand was mentioned. This means the show itself has to be engaging, especially if you want to land more brand deals.

Building a Media Kit: Your Track Record of Triumphs

On YouTube, your past successes are the best predictor of future triumphs. So, build a media kit that proves you can create value for sponsors!

How to Make a Stunning Influencer Media Kit for Brand Deals

A media kit is simply a document that details everything we mentioned above: the audience demographics of your podcast and important details about your listenership.

Begin with smaller, local businesses or brands that resonate with your content's theme. These initial partnerships are stepping stones, providing you with the experience and credibility to attract larger, more lucrative sponsorships. Document each collaboration's success, highlighting how you've met or exceeded the sponsor's expectations. This portfolio becomes your testament to future sponsors, showcasing your ability to deliver results and drive engagement.

Your media kit should be a polished, comprehensive document that captures the essence of your channel. It's not just about flaunting your subscriber count or channel views; it's about telling the story of who you are as a creator, the journey of your channel, and the community you've built. It should detail your audience demographics, engagement rates, and any past sponsorships or collaborations.

Sponsors will scrutinize any partnership they're getting into, so be upfront with your pricing. Sponsors appreciate transparency and the ability to choose from different packages that suit their needs.

When you outline your sponsorship packages, clarity is key. You're not just selling ad space; you're offering a partnership that can include a range of options, from on-air shoutouts and product placements to dedicated sponsored episodes. Each package should be designed with flexibility in mind, allowing for customization based on the sponsor's needs and budget.

The search for sponsors is a proactive mission, and networking is crucial. Industry events, webinars, and even casual social gatherings can open doors to potential sponsorships. Social media platforms, particularly LinkedIn, are invaluable tools for connecting with brand managers and marketing executives.

Podcast directories also offer a treasure trove of potential sponsors, especially those actively seeking to invest in niche content that aligns with their brand.

11 Companies Matching YouTubers with Amazing Brand Deals

Pitching to Sponsors: The Art of the Deal

Personalize each pitch to reflect how your channel aligns with the sponsor's brand and goals. Articulate your value proposition with clarity, focusing on how sponsoring your podcast will benefit them. And remember, the follow-up is just as important as the initial pitch. It demonstrates your commitment and can often be the nudge a potential sponsor needs to make the decision.

Getting a Brand Deal on YouTube: 10 Terrible Mistakes to Avoid

If you decide to partner with a brand, the contract should outline all terms, deliverables, and payment details, ensuring both you and the sponsor are on the same page. It's not just about protection; it's about establishing a professional relationship built on mutual understanding and respect.

Never underestimate the power of a well-drafted legal document. It's the blueprint for a successful partnership!

By 2027, the podcast advertising market is projected to have $5.03 billion in revenue, with an estimated 616.5 million users.

 So, if you want to be a part of it, now is the time to hop on the bandwagon!

Remember, your podcast has the potential to be more than just a passion project; it can be a profitable enterprise that captivates sponsors. So, gear up, get out there, and start forging partnerships that will elevate your channel to new heights. 

And here are 8 podcasts that will take your channel there!

a podcast mic with the youtube logo sitting on a pile of money

Podcast microphone with YouTube logo surrounded by hundred-dollar bills on wooden table

Do you have a YouTube podcast? Are you ready to get monetized? This guide will teach you how to secure brand deals and sponsorships for your audio show!

How to Monetize a YouTube Podcast: Brand Deals and Sponsorships

In the video content sphere, the two unquestionable behemoths are YouTube and Instagram. Both offer real potential in terms of discoverability and growth, but today, we are going to talk about money.

In the video above, Dan breaks it all down for you to watch. From his breakdown, we can see that it's ultimately about the goal of the creator and what they want to achieve. 

This entire idea hinges on two simple ideas:

 – How deeply your audience connects with your content.

 – How quickly your content spreads and generates reactions.

YouTube gives you more paths to earn and more control over those paths. The key is retention and consistency.

YouTube logo on phone with currency in background

 This is the foundation. You earn based on watch time, not just views. Longer content equals more ad space, which equals more money. A 15-minute video can run multiple ad breaks, generating significantly more revenue than a 30-second clip.

 Fans pay a monthly fee for exclusive content, emojis, and perks. This creates predictable recurring revenue that grows with your subscriber base.

These are usually integrated naturally within the story of your video, not just slapped on. Audiences trust authentic recommendations, making these partnerships more valuable for brands.

 You can build external revenue streams off the attention you earn on YouTube. Many successful creators make more from their own products than from ad revenue.

 Live streaming features that let viewers pay to highlight their messages or show appreciation directly.

YouTube rewards creators who build a library of content. Your older videos still earn money. Viewers stick around, trust grows. And as your audience deepens, your monetization stacks.

A video you published two years ago can still generate revenue today. This evergreen potential means your earning capacity compounds over time. Compare this to Instagram, where posts quickly disappear from feeds and rarely generate long-term income.

 prioritizes watch time and session duration. This means the platform actively promotes content that keeps people engaged longer. When you create valuable, engaging content, YouTube becomes your distribution partner, not your obstacle.

The search functionality also works in your favor. People discover your content through search queries, making it easier to build an audience organically without relying solely on trends or hashtags.

Instagram: Monetization Powered by Velocity

Instagram is a speed game. The best monetization happens when you're riding a wave: viral Reels, trending audio, or a visual aesthetic that brands want to align with.

Instagram logo on phone with currency in background

 These are the bread and butter for many creators. Brands pay for product features in your photos or videos. Payment varies wildly based on follower count, engagement rate, and niche.

 Short-form videos with direct links can drive impulse purchases and fast conversions. The key is catching viewers in the moment of inspiration.

 Time-sensitive offers or brand shoutouts happen here, ideal for flash sales and promotions. Stories disappear after 24 hours, creating urgency.

 Direct integration with e-commerce platforms lets followers purchase products without leaving the app.

 Many early brand partnerships start with free products or co-created campaigns. While not direct payment, these relationships often lead to paid partnerships.

It's the dopamine hit. Quick validation. Fast numbers. Immediate sales. But that comes at a cost: low retention. Yesterday's viral Reel is tomorrow's scroll past.

Instagram excels at impulse purchases and visual inspiration. If you're selling lifestyle products, fashion, or anything visually appealing, Instagram's format naturally showcases your offerings.

The platform's algorithm changes frequently, and organic reach continues to decline. Many creators report needing to post multiple times daily just to maintain visibility. This creates a content treadmill that can be exhausting and unsustainable.

Additionally, Instagram's monetization heavily depends on brand partnerships. If brands cut their influencer budgets, creators have fewer alternatives compared to YouTube's diverse revenue streams.

Creator Strategy Breakdown: Three Approaches

Understanding which approach fits your goals can help focus your strategy. Below are three types of creators with different goals in content creation. Let's find out which platform suits whom.

This creator publishes 10 to 20-minute videos regularly, builds relationships rather than just reach, and stacks revenue from multiple streams. The focus is on watch time and loyalty.

Woman shooting content on high end camera

 Slow start, steady growth, high long-term potential.

 Educators, entertainers, reviewers, and anyone with expertise to share.

 Expect 6-12 months before significant income, but earnings can grow substantially over the years.

This creator focuses on trendy, visually appealing content, tracks analytics like reach, saves, and story taps, then pitches those numbers to brands.

 Faster initial returns, more volatile long-term income.

 Fashion, beauty, fitness, lifestyle, and visually-driven niches.

 Can monetize within weeks if content gains traction, but income fluctuates with trends.

This approach cross-promotes between platforms, uses Instagram for reach and YouTube for depth, and funnels short-form viewers into long-form subscribers.

Woman filming content with both phone and camera

 Combines the speed of Instagram with the stability of YouTube.

 Creators with time and resources to maintain multiple platforms.

 Requires significant time investment but offers the highest earning potential.

This hybrid model is powerful but demanding. It requires a clear strategy, strong branding, and substantial content output.

YouTube vs Instagram: Monetization Breakdown

, you need 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours. However, you can start earning through affiliate links and sponsorships immediately.

 No official threshold for monetization, but most brands look for at least 1,000 followers for micro-influencer partnerships. Larger deals typically require 10,000+ followers.

 AdSense pays $1-5 per 1,000 views, depending on your niche and audience location. Add sponsorships ($1,000-10,000+ per 100,000 views), and successful creators can earn $2-15 per 1,000 views.

 Sponsored posts typically pay $10-100 per 1,000 followers for micro-influencers. Macro-influencers (100,000+ followers) can earn $500-5,000+ per post.

 More predictable due to diverse revenue streams and evergreen content.

 Less predictable, heavily dependent on trends, algorithm changes, and brand budgets.

Want to build long-term, sustainable income

Enjoy creating in-depth, valuable content

Prefer having control over multiple revenue streams

Can commit to consistent, quality video production

Excel at visual storytelling and aesthetics

Work in fashion, beauty, lifestyle, or visual niches

Enjoy staying current with trends and pop culture

Have time and resources for multiple platforms

Can create content suitable for both formats

Enjoy experimenting with different content types

So, both platforms have their place in the creator economy. But if you're serious about building a sustainable income from content creation, YouTube provides a better foundation.

As a creator in 2025, however, your goal is to get your content to as many viewers as you can. Becoming a hybrid creator is the ultimate goal, but start with one platform. Build momentum and consider expanding once you've established a strong foundation. 

Graphic showing a versus screen featuring YouTube and Instagram logos

Who pays creators more: YouTube or Instagram? Learn how each platform monetizes, what creators earn, and which one fits your long-term goals.

YouTube vs Instagram: Who Pays Creators More?

Are you a small YouTube creator who thinks you need thousands of subscribers before earning real money? Think again.

The myth that AdSense is the primary path to YouTube revenue keeps many creators from achieving financial success much earlier in their journey. The truth is, there are numerous ways to monetize your channel regardless of your size. Some of these methods can be even more profitable than traditional advertising.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore how creators with just a few hundred subscribers can generate income through strategic partnerships, brand deals, and value-based pitching. Drawing from expert insights shared by 

, a creator who has generated over $5 million through brand sponsorships, this guide will help you create a profitable YouTube monetization strategy.

Justin Moore, author of Sponsor Magnet and Sponsorship Coach

Is AdSense the Only Way to Make Money on YouTube?

Many creators make the critical mistake of putting all their monetization hopes in the 

. They focus on reaching the 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hour thresholds, only to be disappointed by the minimal earnings once they finally qualify for AdSense.

The reality is that AdSense typically generates just $1-5 per 1,000 views for most niches, meaning you'd need hundreds of thousands of monthly views to earn a substantial income. This reality check has left countless creators disheartened, believing they're simply "too small" to make money on YouTube.

But here's where the conventional wisdom gets it wrong: Subscriber count and view metrics aren't the only indicators of a YouTube channel’s monetization potential.

One of the most powerful revelations from Justin Moore's experience is that highly targeted, small audiences can be incredibly valuable to the right brands. Consider this example Justin shares:

"One of my coaching clients, Dr. Alex, talks about digital pathology—a very hyper-niche topic. She's not getting tens of thousands or hundreds of thousands of views. She's getting hundreds or thousands of views. But who's in her audience? Physicians, lab techs, people at biopharmaceutical companies with $20 million marketing budgets who need to reach exactly these specialized professionals."

For these brands, reaching 500 of the right viewers can be more valuable than reaching 50,000 random viewers. Our host, Travis McPherson, reinforces this point:

"I was coaching a creator who focused on UK real estate taxes—a very specific niche. He was getting maybe 100 views per video. After working together, we increased his views to 300-500 per video, and he told me he couldn't handle any more views because his business had expanded exponentially from those targeted viewers."

The key takeaway is clear: When you serve a 

 with specialized needs, even a small viewership can translate to significant monetization opportunities.

Getting Started with YouTube Brand Sponsorships (Even as a Small Creator)

Identify Your Audience's Needs (Not Just Your Own)

Many creators make the mistake of pitching brands they personally like, rather than researching what their audience needs. As Justin explains:

"This is another big mistake that creators make—they sit alone in their room and think, 'Who would want to work with me?' They think, 'Well, it's the brands that I authentically love and use.' Which is a flawed assumption because you're assuming that your audience will also like those things."

Instead of guessing what partnerships might work, collect actual data from your audience:

or other platforms to survey your viewers about:

Their demographic information (age, location, profession)

This data becomes your secret weapon in crafting compelling pitches to brands. For example:

"Let's say that a science channel did a series of polls on their YouTube Community tab over a couple of weeks, and they realize, 'Wow, I didn't understand that 30% of my audience is aspiring astronomers.' They actually want to go to school. Now they could pitch the top astronomy schools to do a partnership."

This approach transforms your pitch from "I have X subscribers" to "I have access to your exact target customer."

The Sponsorship Continuum: Match Your Pitch to Your Size

Justin Moore introduces a crucial concept called the "sponsorship continuum," understanding that your approach should match your current audience size.

Beginning Creators (Under 1,000 Subscribers)

Instead of asking brands to sponsor your channel content, position yourself as a YouTube content creator for their platforms:

"If you have a couple hundred subscribers and you're getting 100 average views per video, if you reach out to a brand and say, 'Hey, let me talk about you on my YouTube channel,' they're going to take one look at your channel and say, 'Not really going to move the needle.' However, if you look at this differently... 'Hey, look, I love your brand. I think you could be telling your brand story in a more compelling way. I would love to create content for you on autopilot—I'll make 5-10 videos a month, post them on your YouTube channel, embed them on your blog, use them for paid advertising. By the way, go take a look at my YouTube channel because that's my portfolio.'"

This approach detaches your rates from your subscriber count, as you're providing direct content creation services rather than audience access.

As your channel grows, you can begin offering a mix of content creation and audience promotion, gradually shifting the focus toward your growing viewership.

Once you have a substantial audience, your pitch can center primarily on the value of accessing your engaged viewers through sponsorships within your content.

The ROPE Method for Effective Brand Pitches

When reaching out to potential partners, Justin suggests using the ROPE method to structure your brand promotion pitch:

Your pitch must be relevant to campaigns the brand is either currently running or has run in the past. Research their marketing calendar and use this research to craft compelling subject lines showing you understand their marketing cycles.

Demonstrate that your audience already has an affinity for the brand by referencing organic content you've published that aligns with their products or services.

Show how you've helped others achieve results, whether through past brand partnerships or your content's impact on your audience.

Make it clear how straightforward the process will be when they say yes—outline the next steps and requirements to minimize friction.

The biggest pitching mistake YouTube creators make is focusing solely on their own metrics. According to Justin Moore:

"Here's what not to do: make it about yourself. This is what every creator does—they reach out, 'Hi, my name is Justin, I have X thousand subscribers, I'm getting this many views on average, I'd love to figure out a way to collaborate.' The brand receives this email and thinks: (1) they don't know who you are; there's lots of people on YouTube with subscribers, (2) they don't know how to collaborate with you—you're saying, 'Let's figure out a way,' and they're thinking, 'More work for me.'"

Your pitch needs to focus on how you can serve the brand. Here is a better pitch: “I love your brand, and I think you can be telling your brand story in a more compelling way. I’m looking to create some videos for you on autopilot. I’ll make 5-10 videos a month, post them on your YouTube channel, embed them on your blog, and use them for paid advertising. Take a look at my YouTube channel because that is my portfolio”.

Many creators pitch once, get rejected, and never try again. Remember that 

—and often has nothing to do with your content quality.

No one wants to be rejected, but the key is to change your mindset. Instead of feeling like a small creator, see yourself as a consultant who can provide value to brands. This shift in perspective can empower you to reach out more confidently.

Additionally, it’s essential to understand that your pitch should evolve as you grow. If you have just a few hundred subscribers, focus on creating content for brands and offering to help them tell compelling stories. As you gain experience and visibility, you can transition to pitching more directly to your audience.


Beyond Sponsorships: Additional YouTube Monetization Strategies

While brand partnerships can be lucrative, 

 is essential for sustainable creator income:

1. Offering Services Based on Your Expertise

Use your YouTube channel as a portfolio to secure consulting, coaching, or implementation services related to your content area.

Develop courses, templates, or guides that solve specific problems for your audience.

Strategically recommend products and services that align with your audience's needs, earning commissions on resulting sales.

4. Building Community Membership Programs

Offer exclusive content, direct access, or additional resources through platforms like Patreon or channel memberships.

Why Brands Need Creators (More Than You Might Think)

A critical insight many small YouTube creators miss is that brands—even large ones—often struggle with creating effective content for platforms like YouTube:

"So many creators think that brands have everything figured out. They've got the marketing staff, they're hiring agencies... What value could I possibly provide? I've been in these meetings—these brands have massive six-figure budgets and they're asking, 'What should we do?' You have to shift your mindset away from feeling as though you're just a creator. You're not just a creator; you can also serve as a consultant to these brands."

This knowledge gap creates a golden opportunity for creators who understand content creation—allowing you to position yourself as both a YouTube creator and a 

. This not only diversifies your income but also enhances your reputation as an expert in your niche. Many brands are willing to invest in quality content, and your experience as a creator can guide them in making the right decisions.

Creating Your YouTube Brand Promotion Strategy

If you're ready to move beyond AdSense and unlock more profitable monetization strategies, here's your step-by-step action plan:

Conduct audience research through community polls, comments analysis, and direct questions

Identify 5-10 brands that would benefit from reaching your specific audience

Research their marketing calendars by reviewing their social media history

Craft personalized pitches using the ROPE method

Start with service-based offers if your audience is still growing

Document your results to use as proof in future pitches

Gradually increase your rates as you demonstrate value

It’s Time to Grow Your Brand as a YouTube Creator

The myth that you need a massive audience to monetize your YouTube channel has prevented countless creators from achieving financial success. By shifting your focus from AdSense to strategic partnerships based on audience value, you can begin generating income regardless of your current subscriber count.

Remember Justin Moore's journey—from accepting free products to generating millions through brand partnerships. The key was understanding that value isn't measured solely in subscriber counts or view metrics, but in the specificity and engagement of your audience.

By applying the strategies outlined in this guide, you can transform your YouTube channel from a hobbyist pursuit into a profitable business, even if you're just getting started. The path to full-time creator income doesn't require millions of views—it requires strategic thinking, audience understanding, and confident positioning of your unique value.

After you create a Brand Promotion Strategy, learn how to be prepared to accept a deal by creating an 

Justin Moore shares how to Make Money without AdSense

Monetize YouTube beyond AdSense via niche targeting, brand partnerships, services, digital products, and affiliate marketing.

Beyond AdSense: Using Brand Promotion as Your YouTube Monetization Strategy

There is nothing I love more than attending YouTuber events around the world. This is not only a superb place to create network opportunities, but a space to learn from the best-of-the-best!

One event I always look forward to is VidCon, a global content creator event that really does expose how creators are able to grow their audiences and monetize their various platforms.

Of course, Check these out and BUT make sure you pick the right service for you and your channel.

Also don't forget to check out more info about 

Next up listen to this episode which is about 

TubeTalk has been informing video creators and marketers since 2014, and is one of the most respected and listened to podcasts in the online video industry. Don't foprget to 

 on your favorite podcast application so you never miss an episode!

You can also find the complete list of all the 

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YouTubers can earn money both on and off the platform - find out how!

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