I want to start a podcast but analyze: how do podcasts actually make money? Map podcast monetization: sponsorships, listener support, affiliate marketing. Calculate: downloads needed for sponsor interest, typical CPM rates. Show me the podcast income: need this many downloads for sponsors, expect this income. Give me the podcast reality: monetization comes after audience building. Include: how many downloads needed to make money, what podcasts actually earn, and whether podcasting is worth time investment.