Ok - so this will probably contradict what we’ve been discussing… but
what if LibreTime did provide a SaaS version in addition to the free download? The actual hosting service could be handled by a partner and/or interested community members. Rather than a full on customer offering, there could be more of a white label/vendor focus.
I think a hosted version would be attractive to small stations, podcasters, or individuals who don’t have the skills or resources to set up and maintain their own instance. It should also provide an ongoing funding source for the OSS project and community. If LibreTime was set up on OpenCollective, there’s potential for hosting as a perk which can then be used to fund work on distro packages and other features/functionality needed.
I do think this could be a way to sustain and grow the project if done right.