Podcast Hosting sites help you distribute your podcast seamlessly with one click of a button.
There's no need to load your episode to every single listening app out there. That would take up your entire day! Instead, use a podcast hosting platform to do the work for you. So, how do you choose the right podcast host for you?
As someone who's navigated the wide assortment of hosting platforms, I know how overwhelming the choices can be. Your podcast host is like your podcast's home base, so you want to make sure it's the right fit.
So let's break down the essentials to help you pick the perfect platform.
Why Choosing the Right Podcast Host will Affect Your Podcast's Growth
Think of your podcast hosting platform as the engine that powers your show. It's where your audio files live, how your episodes get distributed to platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify, and where you access crucial data about your listeners.
The right host can make your life easier. You'll get your podcast distributed to the right listening apps, while also allowing you to see analytics about your podcast that will help you make educated decisions about your podcast.
At the same time, choosing the wrong podcast host can lead to major headaches down the road, since you'll ultimately have to switch to a different listening app in the future. It can be very difficult to switching listening apps, so be sure to keep reading!
Must-Have Features in Your Podcast Host
IAB Certified: It's very important to choose a podcast host that is IAB certified. IAB stands for Interactive Advertising Bureau. This comes into play later on when you start to monetize your podcast. Most advertisers will only work with podcasts that can provide IAB certified analytics - which is what you get mainly from your podast host!
Storage & Bandwidth: How much space do you need for your episodes? Some podcast hosts only allow 1 or 2 hours of content while others allow unlimited. Your best bet is to look for unlimited or generous storage plans.
Analytics: Understanding your audience's listening behavior is key to growth. Make sure your host offers detailed stats on downloads, listener demographics such as age, gender and country. Listener retention is also great to understand how engaging your episodes are and how long listeners are sticking around.
Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface is crucial, especially if you're new to podcasting. After all, it can confusing to figure out whether your podcast is activated on the various listening apps. A good podcast host will make this easy on you!
Distribution: Your host should make it easy to submit your podcast to major directories. Hands down.
Support: If you run into trouble (which can often happen with so many listening apps in play), you want a responsive and helpful support team.
The Best Podcast Hosting Platforms for Any Budget
Acast: This is the platform I recommend to all of my podcasting clients. Acast has a comprehensive free plan, but also a premium plan you can sign up for as your podcast grows. This premium plan can help you better promote and monetize your podcast.
Libsyn: Libsyn is a popular podcast hosting platform that provide tools for uploading and distributing episodes, tracking analytics, and monetizing your content. Libsyn is known for its customer service, reliability and ease of use.
Buzzsprout: Known for its simplicity and excellent customer support. Great for beginners.
Podbean: Offers a free plan and a wide range of features, including monetization options.
Spotify for Podcasters (previously known as Anchor): Owned by Spotify, it's free and easy to use, but lacks some advanced features.
How to Choose the Perfect Podcast Host for Your Podcast
Budget: How much are you willing to spend? There are free and paid options available.
Technical Skills: How comfortable are you with technology? Some platforms are more user-friendly than others.
Growth Goals: Do you want a host that offers marketing and monetization tools?
Which Podcast Hosting Platform would a Podcast Producer Choose?
As a podcast producer, my number one choice is Acast. Why? Because it's important for me to choose a podcast host that has growth features. I love that Acast has a free plan to get my clients started, and then has a premium plan they can tap into when they start to see growth and monetization opportunities for their podcast.
Done with the Podcast Hosting Comparison and Commit to a Podcast Hosting Service?
I recommend narrowing your podcast hosting platform research down to 3 options. Do a comparison on hosting features, costs, good forbeginner, and read reviews.
Then be sure to sign up for a free trial for each. Be sure to look at the listening app distribution, the analytics area, and monetization opportunities.
Unsure if you're choosing the right one? Book a call with me and we can discuss it together.
For You, On Us
Ready to be a fearless podcaster? Launch your podcast with this podcast launch guide!
