In this episode of The Podcasters Lab, Kevin is joined by global partnerships expert Stephanie Thompson for a deep dive into podcast monetisation that actually feels good.

Together they unpack what happens when you drop the outdated ad model, stop chasing promo codes, and start thinking like a brand partner. From emotional bank accounts to the true value of email lists, this episode is packed with real talk and tactical advice for podcasters who want to make money without selling out.

This one’s about shifting mindsets, unlocking creativity, and getting paid for being genuinely useful to your audience.

00:00 – What Business Are You Really In?

→ Kevin shares the Tony Robbins question that reframes everything: the marketing company vs. the mission.

03:14 – Purpose, Podcasting, and Playing the Long Game

→ Why most podcasters don’t know what their show is supposed to do — and how that kills momentum.

06:20 – It’s OK to Want to Get Paid

→ A story about a friend, a video game, and the reminder that monetisation doesn’t make you a sellout.

08:44 – Killing the Sponsorship Model (and What Comes Next)

→ The old ad read is dead — here’s how to build something better through audience-first partnerships.

12:38 – From Tutoring Teens to Teaching Thousands

→ Kevin’s journey from maths tutor to knowledge transfer obsessive — and the link to podcast learning.

15:37 – The Flash of Insight That Changed Everything

→ The lightbulb moment that turned a podcast into a product — and led to the first Podcast Club.

18:06 – Loneliness, Somebodyness, and the Solo Host Struggle

→ Why podcasters feel isolated, and how to create real connection in a one-way medium.

21:48 – Talking to One Person, Not Everyone

→ The mindset shift that transforms how you record — and why “hello everyone” is a missed opportunity.

24:16 – The Mattress Ad That Made Stephanie Unfollow

→ When bad brand fits break trust — and how to avoid becoming background noise.

28:12 – Audience-First Always

→ How to pick partners that align with your content, your community, and your conscience.

30:42 – Storytime: Pistachio Croissants and Local Florists

→ Kevin’s hyperlocal podcast and how tiny partnerships are sometimes the most real (and profitable).

34:49 – How Big Brands Actually Measure ROI

→ Behind-the-scenes of what brands want: from UTM links to screenshots to webinar conversions.

39:00 – Deadlines Drive Action

→ Why “this offer is only live for 60 minutes” works — and how Podcast Clubs tap into the same psychology.

42:48 – Go Beyond the Ad Read

→ The deal-after-the-deal: what happens when a brand asks you to speak, teach, or co-create.

46:22 – The Voice Note Close

→ Why most podcasters quit too early — and how follow-ups, video, and human connection actually close the deal.

48:40 – One Tiny Hack to Build Your List

→ The Facebook group trick every early-stage podcaster should know (but most miss).

51:04 – Building in Public (Even When It’s Messy)

→ What’s coming next for both hosts — and why “falling flat on your face” might be the best way to grow.