How to Know If a Podcast Network Is Right for You | Stephen Perlstein

2026-01-07

Download

If you think getting picked up by a podcast network is the fast track to podcast growth, this episode will save you from disappointment (and probably a bad contract).Stephen Perlstein, Senior VP of Business Development at Libsyn, joins me to break down how podcast networks actually work (and when the right one can be a smart move for your show). We’re unpacking what networks do well, what they don’t do, and the biggest red flags to watch for when evaluating a potential deal.So if you’ve been curious about podcast networks and w...

If you think getting picked up by a podcast network is the fast track to podcast growth, this episode will save you from disappointment (and probably a bad contract).

Stephen Perlstein, Senior VP of Business Development at Libsyn, joins me to break down how podcast networks actually work (and when the right one can be a smart move for your show). We’re unpacking what networks do well, what they don’t do, and the biggest red flags to watch for when evaluating a potential deal.

So if you’ve been curious about podcast networks and want to know how to spot the signs of a partnership that can support long-term growth, hit play and let’s dive in.

1:02 – Why Getting “Picked Up by a Network” Won’t Magically Grow Your Show

3:26 – What a Podcast Network Actually Is (And What It’s Not)

10:08 – Major Red Flags to Watch for in Network Deals

12:41 – Should You Ever Pay to Join a Podcast Network?

13:12 – What Realistic Monetization Timelines Actually Look Like

Episode Links:

Meet Stephen Perlstein: Substack | LinkedIn
Read Stephen’s take on where podcasting is headed: Building the Future of Podcasting

Other Episodes You’ll Love:

Podcast Network Red Flags to Watch For

→ This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7U

Support the show

Liked this episode? Share it with your podcasting friends!

Love this show? Say thanks in true podcasting style by leaving a review.

Take the Podcast Health Score™ to see exactly where your show is losing listeners and get a custom plan that shows you what to fix first.

Join the On-Air Coaching waitlist for a chance to get coached on air by Courtney and get your podcast questions answered in real time.

Get the Podcast SEO Mastery Course and learn how to optimize your show so the right listeners can actually find it.

Apply for the PodLaunch® Accelerator and get deeper podcasting support and expert guidance tailored to your specific podcasting goals. Email us at hello@podlaunchhq.com to learn more.

Comments (3)