Podcasters & Streamers
How audio and video creators use ZapTracker for live monetization.
Engage your audience with real-time zaps during streams and podcasts.
The Opportunity
Live content creators can:
- Receive zaps during streams in real-time
- Fund episodes through community support
- Engage audiences with direct interaction
Use Case: Live Stream Monetization
Scenario
You run live streams and want real-time zap interaction with your audience.
How ZapTracker Helps
- Display the Zap Feed on a second monitor
- See incoming zaps instantly with sender info
- Track stream-by-stream earnings
- Thank zappers by name as they come in
Setup
Open Zap Feed in browser
Position on secondary display
Optionally capture for stream overlay
Monitor during your stream
Live Engagement
When Zaps Come In
- Acknowledge the sender by name
- Read their message if included
- Create moments of connection
- Encourage more participation
Use Case: Episode Funding
Scenario
You want to fund specific podcast episodes through community support.
Strategy
Episode Idea
Create Campaign
Promote on Show
Community Zaps
Hit Goal
Produce & Share
Example Campaign
Fund Season 2 of Bitcoin Basics
Goal: 500,000 sats
Description:
- What: 10-episode season on Bitcoin fundamentals
- Why: Education for newcomers
- How funds used: Recording, editing, hosting
Milestones:
- 25%: Episode outline shared
- 50%: Production begins
- 75%: Preview clip released
- 100%: Season launches!
Streaming Tips
Before the Stream
- Test your ZapTracker setup
- Prepare shoutout responses
- Set up any overlays
- Promote the upcoming stream
During the Stream
- Acknowledge zaps promptly
- Create engagement moments
- Don't make it all about money
- Keep the content primary
After the Stream
- Thank all supporters
- Share stream earnings
- Analyze what worked
- Plan improvements
Podcast Monetization Models
Value-for-Value
Let listeners pay what they think it's worth:
- No required payments
- Support is voluntary
- Often more than subscription
- Builds genuine community
Campaign-Based
Fund specific projects:
- Single episodes
- Special equipment
- Guest interviews
- Live events
Consistent Support
Regular supporters via:
- Recurring zaps
- Per-episode contributions
- Loyal listener base
Metrics for Streamers
Track these for improvement:
| Metric | What It Shows |
|---|---|
| Zaps per stream | Audience engagement |
| Average zap size | Support intensity |
| Unique zappers | Community size |
| Peak zap times | Engagement moments |
Building Your Audience
On Nostr
- Post about upcoming streams
- Share clips and highlights
- Engage between streams
- Create Follow Lists of guests
Cross-Platform
- Mention Nostr on other platforms
- Share your Lightning address everywhere
- Invite existing audience to Nostr
Example Numbers
A growing podcast might see:
| Stream Type | Zaps | Sats |
|---|---|---|
| Regular stream | 10-30 | 5,000-15,000 |
| Special event | 50-100 | 25,000-100,000 |
| Guest episode | 20-50 | 10,000-30,000 |
Results vary significantly based on audience size and engagement.
Getting Started
Set up for one stream
Connect wallet, open Zap Feed, test the flow
Run your first zap-enabled stream
Mention you accept zaps, acknowledge incoming zaps, note what works
Iterate and improve
Review analytics, try campaigns, build the habit