Is your podcast reaching the audiences you want? It really comes down to whom you want to target and how much effort you put into reaching them. Many podcasters are passionate hobbyists, more focused on creating enjoyable content for their core group of fans than on expanding their listener base. Others are eager to grow, and in a competitive market, it鈥檚 understandable. To stand out, you need to scale up.
Regardless of your goals, there are plenty of places to post your podcasts. Here are eight popular options that cater to both casual podcasters and those aspiring to hit the big time.
1. The App Store
For iPhone users, the App Store is the go-to place for new podcasts. Despite its vast library making it hard for newcomers to get noticed, having a presence on the App Store adds a level of credibility that鈥檚 tough to find elsewhere.
2. Medium
Known primarily as a blogging platform, Medium also hosts podcasts. Its established reputation can lend a sense of legitimacy to your podcast. By associating with influential podcasters on Medium, you can boost your own visibility.
3. Google Play (Google Podcasts)
Google Play is Android鈥檚 alternative to the App Store. If you’re targeting Android users, Google Podcasts is where you want to be, thanks to its massive collection of shows.
4. Castos
Designed with early-stage podcasters in mind, Castos is a versatile platform. You can offer exclusive content to paying members or refine your podcasting skills privately. Either way, Castos is a solid choice for building your audience.
5. Transistor
Transistor offers multi-platform distribution, sending your podcast to the App Store, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and more. It鈥檚 cost-effective for prolific podcasters and provides useful analytics, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned professionals.
6. Buzzsprout
Buzzsprout is perfect for beginners. It simplifies the podcasting process and includes a WordPress plug-in for bloggers looking to expand into audio content. Its ease of use and beginner-friendly features make it a great starting point.
7. Captivate
Captivate is like an advanced version of Buzzsprout. It offers features geared towards growth, such as unlimited podcasting and intuitive analytics. It鈥檚 a platform for podcasters serious about scaling up, though hobbyists are welcome too.
8. Simplecast
Simplecast combines a powerful podcast creation and distribution system with excellent analytics. Trusted by big names like Fast Company and TechCrunch, Simplecast provides top-notch production tools suitable for both novices and professionals.
There are many more platforms to explore, such as Podbean, which serves as both a hosting platform and podcast app. Another notable mention is Libsyn, one of the oldest and most widely used hosting platforms.
When it comes to pricing, podcast hosting platforms typically offer both free and subscription plans. Free plans usually come with limitations on storage and features, making them suitable for beginners. Subscription plans offer more storage, better analytics, and extra features, catering to podcasters with larger audiences.
Make sure to check each platform鈥檚 pricing and features, as options and offerings can change over time. Continue researching to find the best home for your podcast.
