How to choose a podcast hosting platform: Complete guide
Look for these few features while selecting a hosting platform to produce a high-quality podcast without any hassle.
The list of podcasting hosting services in the market is only getting longer, with new ones popping up all the time. Hence, choosing the perfect platform for your show may seem like a herculean task.
Whether starting with a brand new podcast or migrating the existing one to a better platform, we have you covered! Read on to know the features you should be looking for while deciding on a podcast hosting platform.
1. Easy to navigate dashboard
You will be spending a lot of time on the dashboard during your podcast production journey. From uploading episodes to sending invites to your co-hosts and guests, your dashboard will be a one-stop destination for multiple podcasting needs.
Hence, research meticulously to pick a well-designed dashboard that lets you create content easily instead of messing around with uploads. Look for an interface that is not too cluttered and has the right amount of features in one place.
2. Comfortable editing tools
Editing may be daunting for not just first-timers but also seasoned podcasters. A hosting platform with a smooth editing interface is a must.
Look for editing features that will help you adjust colors, stitch video and audio clips, tweak audio levels and incorporate transitions. Make sure your platform has all the features you will be using regularly.
Pro-tip: Look for a stereo optimization feature in the podcast hosting edit and upgrade your sound quality instantly for every episode.
3. Affiliate marketing integration feature
The affiliate marketing feature on the podcast hosting platforms lets you integrate referral codes into your podcast. This feature has a unique affiliate code linked with specific products that direct your listeners to the brand’s website.
This feature is a long-term investment that will pay off as you collaborate with brands. Pick a host platform with an affiliate marketplace to monetize your podcast easily.
4. Analytics and insight mapping
Analytics vary significantly on different hosting platforms. To figure out what kind of analytics you will need, outline your podcasting goals and then figure out the key indicators such as plays, downloads, or searches.
Pick the platform that features these indicators and lets you track the progress. You will also need access to cross-platform analytics to distribute on multiple platforms. To get insightful data AI recommendations for growing your podcast, try Listnr.
5. Smart UI features and team workflow
Select a platform that has a team management feature to add multiple people and collaborators if you intend to grow your podcast with a full-fledged podcasting team. Platforms like Listnr make collaboration easier with a feature to create footnotes and share them with the guests.
Additionally, look for smart UI features like default schedule time and WordPress integration with custom plugins. Some platforms also offer built-in CTAs that can be changed for every episode to help you customize your marketing goals.
6. Storage and bandwidth limits
The amount of storage and bandwidth that a podcast host offers will determine how many episodes you can release and the number of people who can listen to your show at a given time. It will also affect your download limit and how listeners access your old content.
Consider growth plans and future goals for your podcast, evaluating the host platform's storage and bandwidth limit as this will be a sole determinant of the number of files you can host and store online.
7. Website compatibility and media player capabilities
A website isn’t essential; however, having one will strengthen your listenership and your brand as a podcast host. Even if you don't intend to launch a website soon, look for a platform with easy website integration for future marketing plans. Don't forget to ensure that your podcast hosting platform integrates easily with your domain and RSS feed.
The media player on the hosting platform lets your listeners stream your show online. It is, therefore, crucial to have a media player with a good interface that includes engaging aesthetics, functionality, and the ability to share podcasts on social media.
Pro-tip: Pick a podcast hosting platform that provides you a personalized RSS feed URL for easy liaison between online directories and podcast hosts.
8. Transcription Services
Transcribing your podcast has more than one benefit. From repurposing your podcast for a blog to creating social media posts, your transcript will serve multiple purposes. Select a podcast hosting platform that offers a good quality transcription service.
Transcribing each of the podcast episodes is time-consuming work. Hence a transcription service is a non-negotiable feature in a hosting platform.
Selecting a podcast hosting platform that suits your production needs the best can be a lot of work. If you are overwhelmed, look no further and sign up for Listnr today to enjoy the best hosting features with attractive add-ons.
FAQs:
Do I need a podcast hosting service?
You need a podcast hosting service to store your recordings and create your podcast feed. Your podcast host helps you to distribute your podcast to the listeners.
How much does hosting a podcast cost?
The average pricing of the podcast hosting platform can be anywhere between $5/month and $50/month. Pricing varies according to features, storage, and bandwidth limits.
What podcasting hosting platform should I use? Or what is the best hosting platform to publish a podcast?
There are many podcast hosts in the market. Choose a platform offering a great user experience, monetization features, and bandwidth that suits your podcasting goals and future development ideas. Listnr gives you an easy editing interface, video recording features, post-production templates, and state-of-the-art analytics.
How do you start a podcast for beginners?
To start a podcast, choose a topic, a format, write out your content, record, and edit. Then select a podcast hosting platform with good bandwidth and storage to host your podcast online.
How can I record a podcast for free?
You can record a podcast for free on your phone or your desktop. You can upload and store the podcast on your podcast hosting platform for online streaming.
References:
https://www.podcastinsights.com/best-podcast-hosting/
https://riverside.fm/blog/choosing-a-podcast-hosting-platform