I Just Started a Podcast. Should I Quit My Job?

No.

Okay, article over. Thanks for coming.

Just kidding. Let’s talk. Because if you’ve just launched your first podcast and you’re already daydreaming about brand deals, live tours, a book contract, or even your own Netflix special, you’re not the only one. We all imagine the big leap. But here’s the truth: podcasting can change your life, just not the day you hit “publish” on episode one.

1. Podcasting Is a Long Game, Not a Lottery Ticket

Yes, there are podcasters who’ve made it big. In the US, people like Amanda Seales (Small Doses), Charlamagne Tha God (The Brilliant Idiots & The Breakfast Club) or Alex Cooper (Call Her Daddy) are household names. In the UK, Steven Bartlett (The Diary of a CEO) turned his show into an empire. In Africa, creators like Trevor Noah (What Now? with Trevor Noah), MacG (Podcast and Chill), Adelle Onyango (Legally Clueless), and Jola Ayeye and Feyikemi Abudu (I Said What I Said) have built huge followings.

But here’s the thing: some of these names already had strong personal brands or platforms before podcasting - the podcast was just an extension. Others built their brand through podcasting, but it took years of consistency and strategy. There isn’t one clear path. What is clear is this: just because you start a podcast doesn’t mean money will start falling into your lap.

The reality? It takes time, work, and patience before you can even think about replacing your full-time salary with your podcast income.

2. Your Job Funds Your Dream (and Keeps You Sane)

Let’s be honest. Most podcasters are living the 9-to-5 and the 5-to-9 life. The nine-to-five pays the rent, the groceries, and yes, your mic and editing software. The five-to-nine is where the passion project lives: YOUR PODCAST, your side hustles, your joy.

Having your full-time job gives you stability. It means you’re not waking up every day panicking about sponsorships drying up or whether your Patreon is enough to buy groceries. One or two good sponsorship months doesn’t equal long-term sustainability.

And the truth is, even if you do want to quit one day, financial experts will tell you to save at least three to six months of expenses before making the leap. Security doesn’t kill creativity; it actually gives you the peace of mind to create better.

3. Events, Networking, and Real-World Fuel

Another overlooked part of podcasting growth? Getting out into the world. Whether it’s podcast conferences, industry events, or creative meetups, being in real spaces gives you content ideas, introduces you to potential listeners, and often lands you your next guest.

For example, I recently attended AFRICON in Atlanta — and one of my favoUrite conversations was about bridging the gap between Africa and the diaspora. That kind of dialogue feeds your podcast brain in ways sitting in a studio never could. Networking in person forces you to talk about your show, practice your pitch, and spark new ideas in real time.

4. When Should You Quit?

Here’s where we need to be brutally honest. There was a time when being the “starving artist” was romantic. But in 2025? Most of us crave stability, peace, and a comfortable life. If you’re thinking of quitting your job for podcasting, it should only happen once you’ve built: 1) a reliable income stream (not just one or two lucky sponsorships), 2) a strong savings buffer (3–6 months minimum) and additional ways to sustain yourself (contracts, consulting, freelancing, memberships, etc.).

Yes, passion matters. Hustle matters. But so does being able to pay rent without anxiety. The “perfect time” looks different for everyone, but one thing’s for sure: quitting immediately after launching your podcast is not the move.

At the end of the day, starting a podcast is exciting. It’s energizing. It makes you dream bigger. But dreaming doesn’t pay the bills. For now, keep your job. Use it to fund your podcast, grow your brand, and buy yourself the time you need to create without fear.

Quit when it makes sense for you, not because you uploaded your first three episodes and got a few likes on Instagram. Until then, build your podcast like the long-term project it is. Because the best podcasters aren’t the ones who jumped in and quit their jobs on day one. They’re the ones who played the long game, grew their audience, and made smart, sustainable moves.

Don't forget to download all the back issues of the Podcast Sessions Magazine free on our website.