Imagine that you’ve come up with a brilliant idea, your script is ready and you’re ready to take on the Podcasting world by storm.
But, wait a minute. You find yourself lost in the technicalities of podcasting. You’re caught in the myriad podcast hosting and don’t know which one to choose or where to start. With so many options out there, finding the best podcast hosting platform can make all the difference in your podcasting journey, giving you more time to focus on being your awesome self and creating fantastic content.
In this blog, we'll guide you through selecting the best podcast hosting site, and provide a brief overview of our top picks including free podcast hosting platforms.
One more disclaimer: We reached out to each of these companies directly to fact check our writing and share a brief quote, so we’re bringing you a bit of the inside scoop on what makes each platform unique.
So, let’s get started.
What is podcast hosting?
Podcast hosting is like having your personal space in the cloud where you can store and distribute your audio files to eager listeners around the world. And to make things even cooler, these sites come with all sorts of extra features to help you connect with the right audience and build up your personal brand.
Hosting platforms are like a digital warehouse where you can store all your audio files and use fancy tech stuff like RSS feeds to distribute your show to popular listening apps like Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
10 Best podcast hosting sites you need to try
Here is a list of the ten best podcast hosting platforms for you to choose from. Let’s explore it together:
1. Transistor
3. RedCircle
4. Buzzsprout
5. Acast
6. Simplecast
7. Megaphone
8. Libsyn
9. Podbean
10. Resonate
11. Honorable Mentions
Now let’s dive in and discuss each of these platforms in detail.
1. Transistor: Best for podcasters with multiple shows
Image source: Transistor
Transistor is an incredible podcast platform with two unique features that really stand out. First, it gives you fancy stats about your audience, like how many people are tuning in and where they're listening from. Second, it lets you host private podcasts, perfect for building a community of dedicated listeners or sharing top-secret content with your company insiders. And the best part? Transistor gathers all this info from every app that plays your podcast, so you can see how well it's doing everywhere.
Pricing: There are three different pricing plans available- $19, $49, and $99 per month.
Features:
- Transistor offers a 14-day free trial
- With Transistor, users can create unlimited shows
- You can upload audio-only content
- They offer private podcasts
- The platform features Dynamic Ad Insertion: pre-roll, mid-roll, post-roll
- Free podcast website (with multiple designs to choose from) for each podcast you create.
- There is no ad marketplace
This platform has great analytics and allows private podcast hosting. But that's not all - the platform also boasts of many impressive features which makes it quite appealing to podcasters.
Start a 14-day free trial with Transistor here.
"Podcasters love that they can start as many podcasts as they want on Transistor (without paying to add additional shows). Hosting multiple podcasts on one plan is a big plus."
- Justin Jackson, Co-founder of Transistor
2. Spotify for Podcasters: Best for audio and video podcasts - all for free
Image source: Spotify for Podcasters
Spotify for Podcasters is a free, all-in-one podcasting tool built to serve creators of all levels. The platform offers a range of innovative features for recording, managing and publishing shows, audience growth, and monetization. One of the key advantages of Spotify for Podcasters is its free hosting and distribution services, which ensures that podcasts are able to be heard on Spotify and across other major podcast listening platforms. Whether a creator’s show is hosted on Spotify for Podcasters, or on a different hosting service, select creators can still take advantage of video podcasting capabilities, one-of-a-kind fan engagement tools, and advanced analytics, allowing podcasters and fans to connect like never before.
Pricing: Spotify for Podcasters is free
Features:
- Spotify for Podcasters offers free, unlimited hosting
- Both audio and video podcasts
- Fan Engagement tools (Q&A and polls)
- Analytics and insights
- Monetization tools (Ads and Podcast Subscriptions)
- Creation and editing tools (Audio Enhancement, Record with Friends, Music+Talk)
- Support private podcasts
- They are IAB certified
- They do not offer dynamic ad insertion (DAI) for ads
With Spotify for Podcasters, you can add a new dimension with video podcasts, tap into the best-in-class analytics and insights, deepen connections with your listeners using the fan engagement tools, and learn how to grow your podcasting skills and audience with their creator education resources.
“What's most exciting to me about what we're working on at Spotify is that we get to see and hear new ways that creators are using our podcasting tools, and making a living working on their craft. We're still just scratching the surface of all of the opportunity that exists within the podcasting industry—podcasts have been ripe for innovation for so long—so I'm thrilled that we are able to participate in its evolution and amplify new voices to be heard.”
– Anna Sian, Director of Marketing for Spotify for Podcasters
3. RedCircle - Best for unlimited free hosting and dynamic ads
Image source: RedCircle
RedCircle is a podcasting platform that caters to independent creators. They offer unlimited hosting and fast distribution, along with a powerful monetization suite to help podcasters make money from their content.
Pricing: Their plans include free, $9, $30, or Enterprise plans.
Features
- RedCircle offers a forever-free plan with unlimited downloads/episodes
- They allow unlimited shows
- Audio and limited video podcasts are available
- They allow dynamic ad insertion
- RedCircle Ad Platform (RAP) offers programmatic and host-read ad campaigns They have an ad marketplace
- Exclusive content feature for setting up a paid subscription
- Third-party prefix analytics tracking on paid plans
RedCircle is a solid podcast hosting and advertising platform. It's easy to use and has a great ad marketplace. Overall, it is recommended for podcasters who are looking to monetize their show. One way that RedCircle beats Spotify for podcasters is that it allows dynamic ad insertions and third-party prefix analytics tracking (only on paid plans).
"We're dedicated to helping independent podcasters earn a living through their craft. Our powerful monetization tools like the RedCircle Ad Platform (RAP) and Dynamic Insertion create an easy and flexible way to earn revenue for your podcast. We'd love for you to give us a try and see how we can help you grow!”
– The RedCircle Team
4. Buzzsprout: Best for beginner podcasters
Image source: Buzzsprout
Buzzsprout is the easiest podcast hosting platform - making it a top choice for podcasters. Just upload your episode and let Buzzsprout handle the rest, including submitting to popular directories. It also lets you add chapter markers and provides advanced analytics on downloads and listener demographics. Ideal for beginners who want simplicity without sacrificing performance.
Pricing: Buzzsprout's pricing plans start at $12 per month and go up to $24 per month, depending on your desired features.
Features:
- Buzzsprout offers a 90-day free trial
- They provide AI-powered mixing with "Buzzsprout Magic Mastering"
- IAB certified
- They only support audio files
- They support dynamic ad insertion (DAI)
- They have a limited ad marketplace
- They do not offer unlimited shows on their plans
- They do not offer private podcasts
Overall, Buzzsprout is a great option if you're starting with a limited budget. With its user-friendly interface and AI-powered features, Buzzsprout makes creating and hosting your podcast easy.
Get $20 credited to your Buzzsprout account by signing up with our unique link here.
5. Acast: Best for podcast hosting with great sound and easy monetization
Image Source: Acast
Acast is a top podcast hosting platform that simplifies podcast creation, publishing, and distribution to major platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. With Acast, you get easy-to-use recording, editing, and mixing features, via free access to Podcastle for web-based episode creation. Acast optimizes your audio for both quality and ease of download. It's an all-in-one solution to manage and grow your podcast.
Pricing: They have three pricing plans: free, Influencer $14.99/month with annual purchase, $25/month without and Ace $29.99/month with annual purchase and $40 without
Features:
- Acast offers a 14-day free trial
- Integrate with YouTube, Twitter, and offer built-in audiogram tools
- Acast allows dynamic ad insertions into podcasts
- They have an ad marketplace that includes sponsorships
- Advanced analytics available on all plans
- IAB certified
- Private podcasts and subscriptions are available with Acast+
Acast is a podcast publishing service with helpful tools for growing your audience and making money from your podcast. Although it's on the pricier side, it's worthy of consideration since they offer unlimited hosting on all of their plans. Translation? Publish as much content as you like with no extra fees.
Get 25% off of your first 2 months at Acast by signing up with our unique link here.
“We love audio stories and the people who create them. Over 100,000 podcasts, including top publishers like the BBC, independent hits like WTF with Marc Maron, and those just starting out, trust Acast to publish and monetize their content. Not only do we have the best tools to create, grow, and monetize your show - we offer unrivaled support and full transparency, so you’re always in the know and in control.”
– The Acast Team
6. Simplecast: Best for podcasting teams with multiple members
Image Source: Simplecast
Simplecast prioritizes user efficiency above all else, making it easy to create and manage podcasts. It's great for podcasts with multiple hosts. Simplecast enables one-click distribution of episodes to popular platforms like Spotify and Google Podcasts. It also has advanced analytics and integrations, making it a solid hosting platform.
Pricing: Their monthly pricing plans range from $15 to $85.
Features:
- Simplecast offers a 14-day free trial
- The platform supports audio-only shows
- Unlimited storage and uploads on all plans
- Customizable podcast website
- Dynamic ad insertion is only available for Enterprise and Professional customers
- They are IAB certified
- They have limited privacy when it comes to Private Podcasts
- Simplecast does not have an ad marketplace
Simplecast is famous for being user-friendly. Also, it has advanced analytics and integrations, making it a great platform.
7. Megaphone: Best for enterprise publishers, professional podcasters, and podcast networks
Image source: Megaphone
Megaphone by Spotify is the industry-leading podcasting platform for enterprise publishers and professional podcasters worldwide, including Vox Media, WSJ, Paramount, and Sony Music. With a comprehensive suite of powerful products, Megaphone enables publishers to create, monetize, measure, and grow their podcast businesses. Megaphone also powers the Spotify Audience Network, connecting advertisers with the most immersed listeners and publishers with maximized revenue.
Megaphone is the best platform for top-notch professional podcasters, but if you have a smaller podcast audience or are just getting started, it probably isn’t the right fit for you.
Pricing: Pricing is available on inquiry.
Features:
- Megaphone does not offer a free trial
- Robust campaign management tools for direct sales
- Additional revenue opportunities through the Spotify Audience Network
- Unlimited users with role-based permissions
- Full-service, non-automated support
- Audience insights via free access to Chartable platform
- Offer dynamic ad insertion
- IAB certified
- They do not offer private podcasts
- They only support audio podcasts, not video
Megaphone gives you access to the Spotify Audience Network. The Spotify Audience Network is an audio-first marketplace connecting a publisher’s unfilled inventory with targeted ads from some of the world’s biggest advertisers. It’s a powerful, flexible offering that can be used as a primary or secondary monetization lever. If a publisher has a direct sales team already in place, it can be a great supplement to unlock more advertiser demand.
8. Libsyn: Best for audio and video podcasts for beginners and pros
Image Source: Libsyn
Libsyn is a popular podcast-hosting platform that's been around since 2004. It's great for new and experienced podcasters and stands out for its unlimited bandwidth and helpful customer support. With Libsyn, it's easy to distribute your podcast to major streaming sites like Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Plus, you can track your audience's listening habits with detailed analytics. And the dashboard is easy to use!
Pricing: Libsyn offers various pricing plans starting at $5 per month.
Features:
- Libsyn does not have a free tier - but you can get a free trial for up to 2 months by using the promo code RESOUND
- Host audio, video, text, and PDF content
- They offer an ad marketplace for all plan levels
- They allow dynamic ad insertion (DAI) on their pro plans
- They support multiple forms of private podcasts with their pro plans, including a private podcast app for more secure delivery
- Their $20+ plans come with the new Libsyn Connect offering that allows for remote audio conference recordings
- Libsyn is IAB certified and provides analytics for pro plans only
Libsyn is a site that provides clear audio and visual quality and good customer support. It is suitable for both beginners and professionals in the podcasting industry.
Use the promo code RESOUND to get an exclusive 2-month free trial at Libsyn.
9. PodBean: Best for podcast advertising and revenue generation
Image source: PodBean
PodBean offers a complete solution for creating, promoting, and making money from your podcast. You can use features like live-streaming and recording to make your podcasts just the way you like. Plus, you get a free customizable podcast website. In addition, PodBean makes it easy to get your episodes on popular platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts and automatically shares them on your social networks to help you reach more listeners.
Pricing: Depending on your desired features, they have different monthly pricing plans ranging from $0 to $99.
Features
- Podbean offers a free plan with 5 hours of free hosting
- You get unlimited shows with the $9 plan
- With the $29 plan, you can upload audio and video files
- They are IAB certified
- Podbean has an ad marketplace
- They offer dynamic ad insertion (DAI) for ads
- Offer private podcasts on their business plans
PodBean is ideal for podcasters looking to make a living from their content. It has excellent tools for making money and lets you customize your brand. The downside is that scheduling can be confusing, and the interface may look old to some users.
10. Resonate: Best for all-in-one production services and hosting
Image source: Resonate
Resonate is a fantastic platform that makes distribution easy - with just one click, your podcast can be uploaded and shared on various listening apps. Plus, you get a dashboard with detailed analytics on your podcast's performance. Another great feature is a dedicated podcast player that can be added to your website or social media for more engagement.
Pricing: Their plans start at $25 and go up to $49 monthly. They also offer custom pricing plans for larger organizations.
Features:
- Resonate offers a 14-day free trial
- Access to a professional podcast production agency
- Dynamic ad insertion (pre, mid, and post roll ads)
- The platform supports audio-only podcasts
- Four unique methods of private podcasts
- Limited to one show per plan
Resonate Recordings is the simpler way to podcast. It offers comprehensive editing and production services but charges for each itemized service. For those that want a professional production team integrated into the same experience as their hosting, Resonate is the way to go.
“Our team works diligently to make premium podcasting approachable for brands and creators. Simplicity is key. Within our native ecosystem, Resonate Hosting offers users one click publishing. Simple and straightforward."
– Jon Estes, VP of Sales and Marketing, Resonate Recordings
Start a 14-day free trial of Resonate hosting using this link.
Honorable Mentions
There are so many platforms we could recommend, but they wouldn’t fit into this post. If you still haven’t found what you’re looking for, then you can check out some of these other platforms below:
With the recommended list, you can confidently select the one that meets your specific needs and takes your podcast to new heights. Whether you're a beginner or an expert in podcasting, there's a hosting platform out there that can help you achieve your goals and connect with your audience.
How does podcast hosting work?
People consider podcast hosting to be a cumbersome task, but we have broken down the process into smaller, understandable steps. Here's how it works:
Record, edit and save your audio file
First things first, you need to record your podcast episode and save it as an audio file, usually in an MP3 or WAV format. The fun begins here – get creative, let your ideas flow, and record your voice passionately.
After capturing your ideas and voice, the true effort begins in post-production, where you'll edit and refine your recording to make it polished and audience-ready.
Choose the perfect fit for your hosting needs
You can make it or break it by choosing the best platform. Given that plenty of options await the podcasters, making some time to research and find the perfect fit is a mandate.
Upload to Podcast Hosting Platform
Now that you have your audio file ready and have chosen the suitable hosting option, it's time to upload it to the platform of your choice. There’s no hard and fast rule to this; each platform can have a different interface to make this process easier.
Storage and RSS feed generation
Once you upload your audio file to the hosting platform, they will store it on their server and generate a unique RSS feed for your podcast. This is like a digital address that allows your podcast to be distributed to various listening platforms.
Submit your RSS feed
Now that you have your RSS feed, you can submit it to popular listening platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. This makes it easier for listeners to find and subscribe to your show.
You only need to perform this step once during the initial setup, and afterwards, it will continue to update automatically without the need for any further action. It takes each platform a different amount of time to approve your RSS feed and publish your show, but generally you can expect it to take anywhere from 1-10 days from the time you submit your show to the time it's uploaded.
Here’s a blog to help you with uploading a podcast to Spotify and Apple Podcasts!
Listeners find and subscribe
Once your podcast is live on these listening platforms, your audience can easily find and subscribe to your show. And the best part? New episodes will automatically be delivered to them as soon as they're released!
And there you have it! With podcast hosting, you can focus on creating great content while your hosting platform takes care of the technical stuff. So, get ready to share your voice, ideas, and passion with the world – podcasting just got easier!
How do you choose the perfect podcast hosting site?
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the number of providers out there? Don't worry; you're not alone! With hundreds of platforms to choose from, it's easy to feel lost in a sea of options. But fear not because we are here to help you navigate the choppy waters of podcast hosting.
To choose the perfect host, start by asking yourself these three questions:
- What's your budget?
Your budget is the most obvious factor when choosing a podcast hosting provider. If you're just starting out and have a $0 budget, then free platforms like Redcircle, or Spotify for Podcasters might be the way to go. However, if you want to invest money into your podcast, consider paid options like Transistor, Buzzsprout, or Acast.
- What's your show format?
The format of your show will determine which file formats you can upload. For example, if you're recording audio and video, then you'll want to choose a platform that can handle both, like Spotify for Podcasters, Castos, or PodBean. On the other hand, if you're recording audio, then any platform will do.
- How will you monetize your show?
If you plan to make money from your podcast, you'll have to choose a platform that can help you with this objective. For example, if you plan to sell ads, a platform with dynamic ad insertion like Redcircle, Buzzsprout, Acast, or Resonate might be the best option. But, if you want to create a paid subscription podcast, then Spotify for Podcasters, Patreon or Substack are good choices. And if you're looking to monetize through sponsorships, then a platform with a built-in ads marketplace like Buzzsprout, PodBean, or Libsyn might be the way to go.
Pro Tip: Don't overthink it!
Choosing a podcast host might seem daunting, but don't overthink it! In most cases, switching hosting platforms is a seamless and easy process that takes an hour or less. So feel free to test a platform and see how it works. If it's not the right fit, you can always switch later.
With these tips in mind, you're on your way to finding the perfect podcast host. Happy podcasting!
Automate your podcast editing with AI through Resound
You’re all set with choosing the perfect site for you. Now it’s time to power up your podcast with powerful editing.
No matter how skilled you are, some editing tasks can be tedious and uninteresting. That's where Resound comes in - it's a tool that automates these tasks and can remove filler words like "umms" and "ahhs" from your audio in minutes, and not hours.. In fact, you can edit your first hour of audio for free in just a few minutes using Resound. To get started, sign up here.
Podcast hosting FAQs
1. What is podcast hosting?
In podcast hosting, a hosting platform like Transistor generates an RSS feed for your podcast. This feed is submitted to podcast directories like Apple, Spotify, Google, Stitcher, etc., enabling you to share your podcast with a broader audience.
2. What is an RSS feed?
A podcast's information, such as its title, description, categories, and episode details, is stored in an XML file called an RSS feed. This file also includes links to the audio and video files that are hosted on the server of the podcast hosting site.
3. How does podcast hosting work?
Once you submit your podcast's RSS feed manually to directories, they will go through an approval process that can take anywhere from 24 hours to 10 days. After that, you only need to submit new episodes to your hosting platform. The directories with your podcast RSS feed will automatically post your episodes within a few hours of their release.
4. How much does podcast hosting cost?
The cost varies depending on the hosting platform and the features you need. Some hosting services offer free plans, while others charge a monthly or annual fee.
5. What features should I look for in a podcast hosting platform?
Key features to look for in a podcast hosting platform:
- Unlimited Storage: Choose a hosting platform that provides unlimited storage to host all your audio files and media.
- Analytics: Choose a platform with comprehensive analytics to track your podcast's performance, including download numbers and geographic locations.
- Uptime: Choose a hosting platform with uptime guarantee to ensure continuous access to your podcast.
- Dynamic ad insertion: Choose a platform with dynamic ad insertion to monetize your podcast and reach a wider audience through automated ad insertion.
- Prefix analytics: Choose a platform with prefix analytics to track podcast performance through third-party tools like Podtrac or Chartable.
- Embedded player: Choose a platform with an embed player for your website visitors to listen to your podcast directly on your site, enhancing their experience.
- Podcast Microsite: Choose a platform with a podcast microsite, an auto-generated website for your show to promote and help your audience discover your content.
- Integration With podcast Directories: Choose a platform with easy integration to popular podcast directories like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, making it easier for your audience to find and access your content.
6. Can I switch my podcast hosting platform if I'm unsatisfied with my current one?
Yes, you can switch your podcast hosting platform at any time. You'll need to transfer your podcast episodes and RSS feed to your new hosting platform, and you'll need to notify your listeners of the change.
7. Can I make money from my podcast using a hosting platform?
Many platforms offer monetization options such as ads, sponsorships, and listener donations. However, the specifics and availability of these features vary depending on the platform.
