Top Podcast Platforms: The Complete Guide for Podcasters

thepodcastconsultant
32 min read
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Top Podcast Platforms.

Already found the right podcasting equipment? Then it’s time to start looking for the right podcast platforms. These will enable you to record and host episodes, and then easily distribute them to popular listening platforms.

But not all platforms offer the same types of features, so you’ll need to compare and contrast your options. That’s why we’ve rounded up the 20 top podcast platforms — including solutions for distribution, hosting, recording, and video — so you can make an informed decision.

New to podcasting and don’t know where to start? We present multiple options in each category, then summarize their features, pros, and cons, along with installation guides so that you can pick out the possible winners.

Understanding the Podcast Platform Ecosystem

Every podcaster needs at least one podcast platform to house their show online safely. There are five different options depending on your needs:

  1. Hosting platforms: These services focus on storing and managing your podcast files and RSS feed. They may provide tools to help you submit your feed to directories, but they don’t operate as a directory for listeners. Hosting-only platforms are ideal for podcasters who only require storage.
  2. Monetization platforms: Most podcast hosting platforms also offer monetization features, which provide extra revenue in exchange for advertising to your audience. There are typically three different types of monetization avenues: sponsorships, ads, and subscription revenue. You don’t usually need to search for podcast monetization platforms on your own, but it’s still a good idea to know what your options are before settling on a host.
  3. Distribution platforms: These are directories or apps where listeners go to find, subscribe to, and play podcasts. They generally pull your show from its RSS feed (which you get from a hosting provider). Distribution-only platforms are best for improving podcast promotion efforts, since you can send your show to as many streaming platforms as you want.
  4. Recording platforms: These allow you to record podcast audio and video directly from your laptop, phone, or tablet. The best ones offer editing capabilities such as transcript-based editing or filler word removal. You’ll need a recording platform if you’re conducting remote interviews and aren’t filming your podcast in a studio. 
  5. Video platforms: These allow you to host said recordings in places where viewers can find your podcast. They also offer tools beyond editing capabilities, like monetization options and listener analytics. If you’re upgrading your podcast from audio to video, you’ll need a video platform to convert, store, or distribute content. 

Every podcaster will need a different combination depending on their setup and long-term goals. 

Now that we have the basic definitions out of the way, let’s take a closer look at the best platforms for the job.

The Best Podcast Platforms 

We’re breaking down the best podcast platforms in four sections:

  • Monetization platforms and hosting platforms
  • Distribution platforms
  • Recording platforms
  • Video platforms 

Just want the SparkNotes? Here’s a comparison of every platform on our list.

NameHostingDistributionVideo RecordingVideo DistributionMonetization OptionsPricing
Apple Podcasts✔️❌❌✔️✔️$19.99 per year for the Apple Podcasters Program
Spotify for Creators✔️✔️❌ (requires Riverside integration)❌ (reverts video to audio)✔️Starts at $0
YouTube Podcasts✔️❌✔️ (live streaming only)❌✔️$0
Amazon Music (Audible)❌✔️❌❌✔️$0
iHeartRadio❌✔️❌❌✔️Starts at $0
Overcast❌✔️❌❌✔️$0 (requires Apple Podcasts)
Pocket Casts❌✔️❌✔️✔️Starts at $0
Acast✔️✔️❌ (can turn videos into audio podcasts)❌ (can turn videos into audio podcasts)✔️Starts at $14.99 per month
RedCircle✔️✔️❌✔️ (generates static image for YouTube)✔️Starts at $29.99 per month
Captivate✔️✔️❌❌✔️Starts at $17 per month
Buzzsprout✔️✔️❌❌✔️Starts at $12 per month
Megaphone✔️✔️❌❌ (does not currently support video podcasts)✔️~$500 minimum hosting fee per month 
Zoom❌❌✔️❌❌ Starts at $0
Riverside❌❌✔️✔️ (requires integrations)❌ Starts at $0
Streamyard❌✔️✔️ (live streaming only)✔️ (live streaming only – no RSS feed)❌ Starts at $35.99 per month
Squadcast❌✔️✔️❌✔️Starts at $0
Zencastr✔️✔️✔️✔️ (requires paid plan)✔️Starts at $18 per month
Libsyn✔️✔️❌ (audio only)✔️✔️Starts at $40 per month
Podbean✔️✔️❌ (audio only)❌ (not for video)✔️Starts at $29 per month
CoHost✔️✔️❌✔️ (still in beta)❌ (still in beta)Starts at $31 per month

Now, let’s take a deeper dive into each of these types of platforms, including how they work, their features and limitations, and some step-by-step implementation guidance.

Best Podcast Hosting and Distribution Platforms

Image sourced from https://podnews.net/directory

Some podcast hosts also offer distribution features. Others only let you distribute content, not host episodes online.

Let’s break down both options so you can 

Best Podcast Platforms for Distribution Only

Apple Podcasts

Apple Podcasts is one of the most important directories for podcasters seeking to reach a wider audience on iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks. It’s also an easy way to help improve your credibility, expand your reach, and help new listeners find you through Apple’s curated charts and categories.

Just remember, Apple Podcasts is a distributor, not a host. In other words, you’ll need to host your podcast elsewhere and submit your RSS feed through Apple Podcasts Connect. 

Key Features of Apple Podcasts for Distribution

  • Massive built-in audience
  • Support for premium subscriptions via the Apple Podcasters Program
  • Personalized recommendations and show lists
  • Listener insights and performance analytics
  • Global reach across 175+ countries
Amazon Music (Audible)

Amazon Music and Audible are free distribution platforms that connect with your podcast host’s RSS feed. They’re accessible through Amazon’s mobile app, web player, and all Alexa-enabled devices, which is a great option for reaching audience members who play content with voice commands.

While Amazon doesn’t provide direct ad revenue for podcasters, premium content deals occasionally offer exclusive partnerships for select shows. Acast, for example, has an ad-free listening deal that generates passive revenue from Amazon Music if you qualify for its ad marketplace.

Key Features of Amazon Music (Audible)

  • Passive income opportunities through monetization and hosting platforms like Acast
  • Podcast listings within Amazon’s search ecosystem
  • Possible content opportunities with Audible Originals
  • Integrates with voice commands (AKA Alexa)
  • 100% free to submit
iHeartRadio

iHeartRadio is one of the world’s largest digital radio platforms, entertaining millions of listeners each month. Getting started is relatively simple: all you need to do is make a free account, then submit your RSS feed from your podcast host.

But as you might have inferred, iHeartRadio doesn’t offer podcast hosting, which means you’ll need another provider to create an RSS feed. It also doesn’t provide any direct monetization for independent podcasters — network-owned podcasts may be approached with more lucrative offers. 

Key Features of iHeartRadio

  • Podcast promotion within the iHeartRadio app
  • Access to iHeartRadio’s 150+ million registered users
  • Featured podcast placements on audience-focused charts
  • Distribution to smart speakers and connected cars
  • Priority for network-owned podcasts

Best Podcast Platforms for Hosting and Distribution

Here’s a quick breakdown of the best podcast distribution platforms that also offer hosting:

Spotify for Creators

Spotify for Creators (formerly Anchor) is one of the most accessible platforms for new podcasters. It offers free hosting, easy editing tools, and seamless distribution to Spotify and other platforms, plus built-in exposure to millions of listeners. 

But while Spotify makes it simple to monetize with ads, listener support, or paid subscriptions, they’re mostly limited to certain regions (tough luck outside the US). It’s also quite a ‘walled garden’ for a host and distributor, meaning the best features are optimized for Spotify itself and not necessarily other platforms.

Key Features of Spotify for Creators for Hosting and Distribution

  • Free podcast hosting with unlimited episodes
  • Automatic distribution to Spotify and other directories
  • Ad integration through Spotify’s Audience Network
  • Paid subscription tools and listener support are built in
  • Video podcast support directly on the Spotify app
YouTube

YouTube is quickly becoming a podcasting powerhouse, especially for creators who film video episodes. It offers a huge potential audience, excellent search visibility (thanks to Google), plus accessible monetization options if you’re unfamiliar with how it works. 

If you’re already creating video content — or want to build an audience using visuals — YouTube makes perfect sense as a host/distributor. But keep in mind, it isn’t a traditional podcast host. You’ll still need a dedicated host to create an RSS feed and distribute your audio-only podcast to platforms like Apple or Spotify. 

Key Features of YouTube for Hosting and Distribution

  • Automatic podcast playlists and visual organization
  • YouTube Studio analytics
  • Built-in audience monetization through the YouTube Partner Program
  • Strong SEO discoverability
  • Supports both short-form clips and long-form episodes
Acast

Acast is a podcast hosting platform built with monetization and growth in mind. It offers dynamic ad insertion, sponsorship support, and paid subscriptions — all while giving creators full ownership of their content. Acast also has built-in analytics and tools to distribute your podcast to all major platforms.

The main consideration here is cost. Acast does offer a free tier (but only for up to five episodes), and pricing scales depending on features and audience size. Its best hosting and distribution features cost $29.99 per month, which may not necessarily fit all budgets.

Key Features of Acast for Hosting and Distribution

  • Dynamic ad insertion for mid-roll and pre-roll placements
  • Podcast distribution to Apple, Spotify, Google, and more
  • Monetization through Acast+ subscriptions and sponsorships
  • Advanced analytics and performance tracking
  • Growth tools like smart links and embedded players
Captivate
  • Best For: Agencies, networks, and growth-focused creators
  • Monetization: Subscriptions
  • Start-Up Guide: How to Publish an Episode

Captivate is a podcast hosting platform built for agencies, podcast networks, and ambitious solo creators. The wide range of features speak for themselves: built-in podcast websites, email opt-in tools, private podcasting features, and subscription management tools.

Captivate’s user interface and admin dashboard are certainly beginner-friendly, but keep in mind that some of its features are geared towards professionals. You’ll also need a paid plan to get started (no free tier exists). Still, what you get in return is enough to bring you beyond the basics. 

Key Features of Captivate for Hosting and Distribution

  • Unlimited podcasts and team members per account
  • Subscription management
  • Unlimited uploads on every plan
  • Private podcasting for exclusive content
  • Built-in podcast website with SEO tools
This checklist gives a simple overview of things to consider when picking a podcast hosting solution.
Buzzsprout

Buzzsprout is one of the most user-friendly podcast hosting platforms on the market. It’s perfect for beginners who just want a simple way to publish and distribute their show, without getting overwhelmed by technical details. Setup is also lightning fast: you can be live on major directories (like Apple, Spotify, and Amazon) in minutes.

Just keep in mind that Buzzsprout’s monetization tools aren’t as customizable as some other competitors. And although there’s a free plan, episodes get deleted after 90 days unless you upgrade. If you like what you see, you should upgrade sooner rather than later.

Key Features of Buzzsprout for Hosting and Distribution

  • Easy-to-use dashboard and episode management tools
  • Automatic distribution to top directories
  • Dynamic ad insertion via Buzzsprout Ads
  • Visual soundbite tools for social promotion
  • Podcast website and embeddable players
Megaphone

Megaphone.fm (now owned by Spotify) is a podcast hosting and monetization platform built for serious players. Networks, media companies, and large podcast publishers can tap into tools like dynamic ad insertion, audience targeting, and cross-show campaigns. 

If you’re running multiple shows or have an extensive back catalog, Megaphone can help to simplify ongoing management. That said, Megaphone isn’t a great fit for solo podcasters or early-stage creators. Pricing isn’t public, and onboarding typically requires a contact from the Spotify team.

Key Features of Megaphone for Hosting and Distribution

  • Enterprise-grade dynamic ad insertion
  • Access to Spotify Audience Network for monetization
  • Advanced analytics and listener insights
  • Tools for managing multiple shows and contributors
  • Seamless integration with Spotify for cross-platform performance
Libsyn

Libsyn, short for ‘Liberated Syndication,’ has been helping established podcasters since 2004. Thousands of established brands trust it and offers granular control over everything from RSS settings to episode scheduling and monetization.

You should know Libsyn’s interface can feel a little outdated and clunky, especially if you’re used to more modern tools. But if you value control and customization over aesthetics and simplicity, it’s still going to give plenty of bang for your buck.

Key Features of Libsyn for Hosting and Distribution

  • Distribution to every major podcast directory
  • Monetization options via Libsyn Ads and subscriptions
  • Custom podcast apps (for higher-tier plans)
  • IAB-certified podcast analytics
  • Extensive control over publishing and feed settings
Podbean

Podbean makes it easy to host, promote, and monetize your podcast from a single dashboard. It offers unlimited hosting (even on affordable plans), built-in ad marketplaces, and premium content tools for subscription-based episodes.

For this reason, Podbean is ideal for creators who want to grow without outgrowing their platform. Just know its design and customization tools aren’t as flexible as some higher-end competitors, and dynamic ad tools may be more limited for advanced campaigns.

Key Features of Podbean for Hosting and Distribution

  • Unlimited audio hosting and bandwidth (on most plans)
  • Monetization through ads, patron programs, and premium content
  • Built-in podcast website and mobile app
  • Automatic distribution to Spotify, Apple, Amazon, and more
  • Live audio streaming with listener engagement tools
Pocket Casts

Pocket Casts is a podcast listening app primarily designed for English-speaking listeners. Once you generate a feed, you can automatically add it to Pocket Casts, which shares your content with audiences in the US, UK, and Australia. 

Of course, Pocket Casts is primarily a distribution platform, which means it doesn’t offer built-in monetization or exclusive content features like other tools on this list. But it’s still a great way to reach podcast listeners without paying extra (unless you pay to be featured on their platform).

Key Features of Pocket Casts for Distribution

  • Automatic distribution via RSS feed 
  • Cross-device syncing for mobile, desktop, and web
  • Advanced playback controls (variable speed, trim silence, and more)
  • Large audience (over 1,000,000 active listeners)
  • 100% free for podcasters to distribute
Overcast

Overcast is a popular iOS-exclusive podcast app that syncs with podcast feeds uploaded to Apple Podcast. This is particularly helpful for reaching more of the same user (like if you’re targeting iOS users only, for example).

Like Pocket Casts, Overcast lacks built-in monetization tools, and its availability is limited to Apple devices. But that’s not to say it’s not a valuable distribution channel — there were around 1,113,224 active users as of February 2025.

Key Features of Overcast for Distribution

  • Automatic podcast distribution from Apple Podcasts
  • Offline listening and Apple Watch support
  • 100% free and runs in the background for podcasters
  • Visual ads available to promote podcasts
  • All downloads recorded on external servers (for accurate metrics tracking)

Best Podcast Recording Platforms

Here’s a quick feature comparison of the best podcast recording platforms:

PlatformFree PlanBrowser-BasedDesigned for Podcasting
Zoom✔️✔️❌
Riverside✔️✔️❌
Streamyard❌✔️✔️
Squadcast✔️✔️✔️
Zencastr❌ (free 14-day trial)✔️✔️

Zoom

  • Best For: Remote podcast interviews and group recordings
  • Monetization: N/A (Requires external hosting for monetization)
  • Start-Up Guide: How to Record a Podcast with Zoom

Zoom is a widely used video conferencing tool that doubles as a podcast recording platform. It’s a popular choice for remote interviews since most guests are already familiar with it. Plus, its cloud recording feature makes it easy to capture audio and video and upload copies straight to the cloud (which you can automate with workflows to automatically upload to your podcast host).

That said, Zoom wasn’t built for professional podcasting, so the audio quality can be lower compared to dedicated podcasting platforms. Most podcasters utilize additional podcast editing software to refine their recordings before publishing.

Key Features of Zoom

  • Works on phones, laptops, and tablets
  • Cloud and local recording options
  • Free plan available for 40-minute meetings
  • Automatic transcriptions (with premium plans)
  • Up to 100 participants at once

Riverside

Riverside is a remote recording platform that’s primarily known for its high-quality sound. Unlike Zoom, it records each participant’s audio and video locally, which may result in higher-quality audio and video. 

You can use Riverside to access built-in editing tools, AI-powered transcriptions, and easy file exports for easier podcasting. But keep in mind the price goes up with more storage. Plus, the platform can be somewhat overwhelming (a major drawback to podcast beginners). 

Key Features of Riverside

  • Local recording for high-quality audio and video
  • AI-powered transcriptions and editing tools
  • Separate audio/video tracks for easier post-production
  • Browser-based (no software download required)
  • Live call-in feature for video podcasting

Streamyard

StreamYard is a browser-based platform designed for live streaming and video podcast production. Its upgraded plans let you broadcast podcasts simultaneously to platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn, although you can also record high-quality audio and video. 

With features like on-screen branding, multi-guest support, and audience interaction tools, Streamyard is a great choice for live-only podcasters. Just keep in mind that StreamYard doesn’t offer local recording (only cloud recording capped at 50 hours), so your audio quality may depend on internet stability. 

Key Features of Streamyard

  • Browser-based (AKA, no software downloads required)
  • Multi-streaming to platforms like YouTube and Facebook
  • Custom branding and overlays for professional live streams
  • One-click access for guest interviews
  • Automatic cloud recordings for repurposing content

Squadcast

Squadcast is the podcasting arm of Descript, specializing in transcription-based editing. Once you capture your remote recording, you can edit the transcript in-app, then automatically export the timeline to DAWs like REAPER, Adobe Audition, and more.

But unlike Streamyard, Squadcast doesn’t support live streaming and post-production tools, so you may need to purchase additional platforms to fill the gap. You also can’t record more than one hour per month unless you’re willing to upgrade to a more expensive plan ($12 to $40 per month).

Key Features of Squadcast

  • Local recording for high-quality, lossless audio
  • Edit with transcription capabilities
  • Separate tracks for each guest for easy editing
  • Included access to Descript’s editing tools
  • Cloud backup to prevent lost recordings

Zencastr

Zencastr started as a remote audio recording tool, but has slowly evolved into an all-in-one podcasting solution. It now offers recording, editing, hosting, and distribution tools, and even monetization through its Creator Network.

It’s hard to find many drawbacks to Zencastr: it records, edits, uploads, and monetizes video podcasts on your behalf. But you should know it’s not a replacement for dedicated podcast editing, especially if you need a more professional touch on your show. 

Key Features of Zencastr

  • Support for all podcast platform functions (hosting, distribution, monetization, recording, and video distribution)
  • Automatic audio enhancements with built-in editing tools
  • Separate tracks for easier editing
  • Built-in monetization tools
  • Directly publish videos to YouTube

Best Podcast Video Platforms

As mentioned, podcast video platforms are designed to host or distribute your video content. They don’t usually offer in-app video recording, but we’ve highlighted features and integrations that could help.

With this in mind, here’s a quick feature comparison of the best podcast video platforms:

Spotify for Creators Video Podcasts

Spotify for Creators is one of the largest podcasting platforms in the world, with billions of users accessing the platform every day. It offers everything you’d expect from a podcasting platform, including hosting, distribution, monetization, and most importantly, video support. 

But Spotify for Creators doesn’t allow you to distribute video off-platform, and even audio-only distribution requires manual effort to begin. If you don’t mind the initial manual workflows, and if you already have video recording software installed, Spotify for Creators is an easy way to record, host, and distribute content. 

Learn more about Spotify for Creators.

Key Features of Spotify for Creators Video Podcasts

  • Hosting, monetization, distribution, video, and video recording support
  • Keep 50% of your ad and subscription revenue
  • Remote recording with Riverside integration
  • Audio and video podcast support
  • 100% free to use

YouTube for Video

While not inherently built for podcasting, YouTube is one of the most popular platforms for uploading and distributing video at scale. It’s recently updated to support podcasts specifically through its YouTube Music app (you’ll see separate sections for audio and video podcasts).

Just keep in mind that YouTube doesn’t offer any distribution capabilities. You can push content to the platform, but you can’t take content out. This isn’t ideal for mass podcast releases, although you could potentially get around this with a different podcast host.

Key Features of YouTube for Video

  • Built-in monetization for ads and subscriptions (user ‘memberships’)
  • Supports audio and video podcasts
  • Lightweight editing capabilities
  • Free to use and upload videos
  • Unlimited storage space

Libsyn

Libsyn is one of the longest-running podcast hosting platforms, offering distribution, monetization, and analytics tools. Its biggest claim to fame is converting audio-only podcasts into video, which you can easily upload to larger platforms like YouTube.

But you should know Libsyn’s interface can feel a bit outdated compared to newer platforms. Plus, its pricing is based on storage rather than downloads or bandwidth. This makes it a great option if you want detailed audience insights and seamless distribution, but be prepared to pay more for additional storage.

Key Features of Libsyn

  • Audio to video solutions (static images)
  • Advanced analytics and audience insights
  • Monetization options, including ads and listener donations
  • Customizable podcast website and embeddable players
  • Low-cost paid plans (start at $7 per month)

Podbean

Unlike Libsyn, which offers audio-to-video tools, Podbean supports video-to-audio tools. This means you can take existing video podcasts from YouTube and convert them into audio, which allows you to upload to more hosting and distribution platforms. 

You can upload video podcasts into Podbean, but there’s no way to distribute the video with an RSS feed. If you have already created video-first content and want to distribute your show to other platforms, Podbean might be a handy tool (even if it’s one of the most expensive options on this list).

Key Features of Podbean

  • Built-in monetization via ads and premium content
  • Live-streaming capabilities with audience interaction
  • Automatic distribution to major podcast platforms
  • Video support starts at $29 per month
  • Basic website builder included

CoHost

CoHost was once an audio-only platform that’s looking to rebrand with video-first tools. Their roadmap includes features like video podcast analytics, publishing to social media, and automatic video repurposing (think cutting pieces of your video into YouTube Shorts, Instagram Reels, and TikTok videos). 

But again, CoHost’s video podcasting tools are still in beta, which means there’s no way to judge their quality until their debut. Your best bet is signing up for CoHost’s waiting list to be notified whenever the features are released. 

Key Features of CoHost

  • Dedicated podcast websites
  • Unlimited data storage on every plan
  • Automatic AI-powered transcriptions
  • Video repurposing and publishing tools (to be released) 
  • Advanced analytics with audience insights and listener tracking links

Best Podcast Monetization Platforms

As mentioned, podcast monetization platforms can help you make money on your show (think Blubrry or Simplecast). But not all platforms offer strong monetization options, which is why we’ve found the most profitable options for you.

Here’s an in-depth comparison of the best podcast monetization platforms:

Megaphone Monetization

Megaphone (now owned by Spotify) is a high-end podcast hosting and monetization platform. It prioritizes ad revenue through Megaphone Targeted Marketplace (MTM), which connects premium advertisers with qualified podcasters.

How difficult is it to qualify, you may ask? There’s no way to know unless you contact the sales team. You should also know there’s no transparent pricing available online (although previous users suggest a starting range of $500 per month).

Key Features of Megaphone Monetization

  • Ads marketplace for qualified podcasters
  • Integration with Spotify Audience Network (SAN)
  • Enterprise-grade analytics
  • Multiple user roles for teams
  • Automated ad insertion and campaign scheduling

Acast Monetization

Acast is a podcast hosting and monetization platform with a wide range of revenue options (think dynamic ad insertion, premium subscriptions, and sponsorship deals). It’s one of the most flexible platforms for independent podcasters who are interested in monetization without network restrictions.

But Acast has fairly steep monetization requirements — like 2,000 listeners per month just to qualify for its ad network. You also can’t access all monetization options from the base plan. Sponsorships, for example, require $25 per month without annual payments. 

Key Features of Acast Monetization

  • Dynamic Ad Insertion (DAI)
  • Acast Marketplace for direct sponsorships and ad placements
  • Acast+ for ‘premium’ content (subscriptions, early access content, and exclusive deals)
  • Listener donation integrations for one-time/recurring payments
  • Automatic distribution to Spotify, Apple, Amazon Music, and more

RedCircle Monetization

RedCircle is a full-service podcast hosting platform that offers additional features for distributing your show. Unlike other distribution platforms, it also offers monetization options, including dynamic ad insertion, direct listener donations, subscription-based content, and more.

RedCircle is a strong alternative to platforms like Megaphone for independent podcasters looking to grow and monetize without giving up their show’s ownership. Just be aware that the pricing can be high — unlocking all of RedCircle’s features costs $99.99 per month. 

Key Features of RedCircle Monetization

  • Video distribution (turn podcast audio into a YouTube video)
  • Advanced podcasting analytics
  • Audience tracking URLs
  • Built-in monetization opportunities
  • Cross-promotions for sharing audiences

Buzzsprout Marketplace

Buzzsprout is one of the most user-friendly podcast hosts, offering simple tools for monetization, hosting, and analytics. Even if you don’t qualify for Buzzsprout Ads, you can set up recurring support and monthly subscriptions for exclusive content or bonus audio.

 Don’t want to use Buzzsprout’s native features? It also integrates directly with Apple Podcasts Subscriptions and Patreon. This allows you to connect third-party platforms and migrate podcast hosts without losing your supporter base.

You should know that Buzzsprout doesn’t offer sponsorship programs, and there’s no way to search for options in-app. But this may not be a deal breaker if you’re just looking for listener subscriptions, which are accessible to all users on any plan.

Learn more about hosting with Buzzsprout.

Key Features of Buzzsprout Marketplace

  • Buzzsprout Ads for programmatic revenue
  • Direct integration with Apple Podcasts Subscriptions
  • Automatic episode optimization (converts files to the best format for all streaming platforms)
  • Dynamic content tool for pre-roll and post-roll messages
  • Subscription-based revenue (flat-fee skimmed off the top)
In this free slide deck you learn the what, why, and how of podcasting.

Apple Podcasts Subscriptions

Apple Podcasts is a subscription-first podcast monetization platform that allows podcasters to sell exclusive content, ad-free episodes. You can also debut early access shows and premiere members-only content through Apple Podcasts Subscriptions.

You should know that Apple charges a 30% cut in the first year, which drops to 15% in subsequent years. It may be more expensive for the first 12 months, but its multi-million-member global audience may be worth the up-front expense. 

Key Features of Apple Podcasts

  • Use Apple Podcasts Subscriptions to set up premium content
  • Creators can set their own subscription fees and offer free trials
  • Global distribution to Apple’s massive listener base (primarily iOS and macOS users)
  • Detailed analytics through Apple Podcasts Connect
  • Baked-in integrations with Apple Pay and the App Store

Captivate Monetization

Captivate advertises itself as the world’s only ‘growth-oriented’ podcast host designed with beginning podcasts in mind. Unlike some hosts that focus purely on ad revenue, Captivate allows podcasters to monetize through memberships, sponsorships, donations, and more.

Keep in mind that Captivate charges fairly steep revenue fees in exchange for access to the platform. You’ll have transaction fees, membership fees, and withdrawal fees to pay (not including cost-sharing fees for direct listener tips).

Key Features of Captivate Monetization

  • Private podcasting and members-only content
  • Access to the Captivate ad marketplace
  • One-click guest booking and marketing tools for outreach
  • SEO-optimized podcast websites
  • Advanced listener analytics with Growth Labs

YouTube Partner Program

As mentioned earlier, YouTube is one of the most powerful platforms for podcast monetization — but only if you know how to use it. Once your channel hits 500 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in a year (or 10 million Shorts views in the past 90 days), you’re eligible for YouTube’s Partner Program. 

You can use YouTube’s platform to welcome in ad revenue, accept Super Thanks, create channel memberships, and set up exclusive content. But again, most of these features aren’t available right from the beginning. You’ll need consistency and audience engagement to unlock the best tools.

Key Features of the YouTube Partner Program

  • Super Thanks
  • Channel members
  • Members-Only content and live streams
  • Dynamic ads
  • Affiliate programs

Spotify Partner Program

Spotify for Creators gives you access to listener subscriptions, plus two types of ad revenue: regular and premium. You can make ad revenue on regular dynamic ads, and premium ad revenue on ads rolled during video podcasts. 

You should know Spotify does offer fewer visual options compared to YouTube, but it makes up for it with slightly more accessible monetization capabilities (you need two published episodes and 100 listeners in 60 days). If you’re focused on growing podcast revenue and already using Anchor (now Spotify for Podcasters), it’s a natural fit for monetizing your show.

Key Features of the Spotify Partner Program

  • Ad revenue
  • Premium ad revenue (video)
  • Subscriptions

Building Your Podcast Platform Stack

At this point, you’ve seen the best podcast platforms for practically every use case. There are options for hosting and distribution, video recording, and video distribution across listening apps and streaming platforms.

All that’s left is to pick the perfect tools for your needs, then connect them together to create a system that works for you.

Here’s how to build your podcast platform stack and take your show wherever it needs to go.

Narrowing Down Your Shortlist

The first step in this process is whittling down your options. It might be difficult to choose between multiple providers.

If you’re looking at podcast hosts and monetization platforms, you can usually choose one or more. Other podcast platforms (like distribution, recording, and video systems) may offer free trials so you can try before you buy.

Here are a few other questions to ask while choosing a podcast platform:

  • How much are you willing to pay? If the answer is ‘nothing,’ you can narrow down the list pretty quickly.
  • How familiar are you with podcasting tech? Should you prioritize something simple with good help documentation?
  • What are you planning on doing with your show? If you don’t intend for it to grow, you can stick with one or two smaller platforms.
  • What do you already own? For example, if you already own a podcast editing tool or DAW, you may not need a platform with built-in editing capabilities. Do you own all your video podcasting equipment? No need to purchase platforms with video recording tools.
  • What integrations do you need? Many podcast platforms integrate with one another, but not all offer native integrations right out of the box. Before purchasing a tool, be sure to do your homework and see if the options on your list can connect with one another.

Which leads to our next point:

Integrating Your Platforms 

Alt: Here’s an example of integrations with Spotify for Creators. 

Now that you’re working with several podcasting platforms, it’s time to connect them and put your podcast on autopilot. This could be as simple as distributing podcasts to your listening channels or as complex as automating upload schedules, ad rolls, and more. 

If you’re not familiar with your platform’s integrations, you can usually check for them in its help desk or documentation. Keep in mind that you can usually integrate more than just other podcasting platforms. You may also have access to:

  • Advertising networks to automate ad placements 
  • Sponsorship marketplaces to connect with sponsors via services like Gumball or Podcorn
  • Social media tools so you can auto-share episodes on X, Instagram, and Facebook
  • Email marketing so you can push out episodes as email newsletters
  • Third-party monetization platforms like Patreon, Supercast, or Apple Podcasts Subscriptions
  • Transcription services so you can convert audio to text (think Descript)
  • SEO and website builders to embed episodes on WordPress, Squarespace, or a dedicated podcast site
  • Live streaming (like Streamyard), where you can broadcast live episodes across multiple platforms simultaneously.
  • Collaboration and scheduling tools like Calendly to coordinate guests and show times
  • Dedicated analytics through Chartable or Podtrac so you can drill down into listener trends

Checking Costs and ROI

Most (but not all) podcast platforms require monthly fees. If you are spending money, do you know if it’s paying off?

The best way to know is to perform a cost analysis, which compares the profit of your results to the expenses of your platform(s). Calculating return on investment (ROI) isn’t always easy, but depending on your platform, there may be a few easy workarounds to try. 

The first is checking your platform for built-in analytics, like the number of downloads or listeners per episode. This can help you calculate ROI for all sorts of scenarios, including:

  • Awareness ROI = number of downloads/total spent on the platform
  • Engagement ROI = average consumption rate in minutes X number of listeners per episode) / total spent on the platform
  • Leads ROI = total number of leads/total spent on the platform

You can also use these numbers to improve your podcast. 

Noticing more listeners on certain distribution platforms? You might consider more ways to monetize your podcast with that host. 

Wondering if you can get more budget for your show? Bring metrics to your decision-makers so they can see how your podcast is moving the needle.

💡Related: How To Analyze and Improve Your Podcast Performance

The Bottom Line on the Top Podcast Platforms

Mixing and matching various hosting, monetization, distribution, and video recording tools can help you make the most of your show. They can also help you feel more confident, so you can focus on your content rather than just your tech stack. 

Just keep in mind that none of these platforms are silver bullets for launching or producing a successful podcast. If you genuinely want to make the most of your podcast, you should partner with experts who can help you find your footing.

The Podcast Consultant is one such expert who partners with podcasters in the marketing and financial spaces. We offer podcast audits, video and audio recording support, and even social media services to grow your show across any podcast platform.

Ready to make the most of your podcast?
Learn more by booking a discovery call.

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