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 want to kn...

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: