Podcast Monetization Is Mostly a Lie with Donald Dunn

Most podcasts don’t fail because people run out of things to say.They fail because people start chasing something they never clearly defined in the first place.In this episode of Monetize This, I talk with Donald Dunn—who runs multiple shows, built a podcast network… and makes exactly $0 from podcasting itself.Not as a failure. As a choice.We get into why monetization advice often misses the point, how burnout actually happens, and why the most important decision you can make about your podcast has nothing to do with downloads.A Few Takeaways1. Most podcasts don’t fail—they driftThey start with one intention and slowly absorb expectations from the outside.2. Burnout isn’t about talking—it’s everything elseEditing, promotion, distribution. That’s the real job.3. Monetization comes later (if at all)Trying to force it early usually leads to disappointment—or worse, bad decisions.4. The podcast might not be the businessFor some creators, it’s the portfolio, the proof, or the entry point—not the revenue stream.5. You have to decide what this is upfrontBecause the work, expectations, and outcomes are completely different depending on that choice.About the GuestDonald Dunn is the founder of Barracks Media and host of multiple podcasts, including Spirits and Stories. His work focuses on storytelling, mental health, and helping others share their experiences—often outside of traditional monetization models.Mentioned in This Episode* Barracks MediaMonetize This! is for podcasters who are tired of being treated like a funnel, a brand, or a growth chart.Sometimes the podcast is the thing.And that’s enough. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit monetizethispodcast.com