Understanding podcast metrics is crucial for both creators and listeners, as it provides insight into how content is consumed and appreciated. In this episode, we break down key metrics like downloads, listens, and followers, clarifying what these numbers truly mean for podcast success.

Takeaways:

• Understanding podcast metrics is crucial for podcasters to gauge their success accurately.
• Not all downloads equate to actual listens; engagement is a more reliable metric.
• The Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) provides standards for measuring podcast downloads effectively.
• Apple Podcasts defines an engaged listener as someone who listens for at least 20 minutes.
• Followers are essential as they represent a podcast's loyal community and engagement level.
• High listener engagement suggests quality content, making it appealing to new potential listeners.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• IAB
• Spotify
• Apple Podcasts

Products Used for Be a Better Podcaster

Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.

Equipment:

• Google NotebookLM
• Hindenburg Pro
• Auphonic

Recommended resources:

• Captivate.fm
• Substack
• Boomcaster remote interviewing

Be a Better Podcaster is a tips and growth podcast brought to you by Jamie and Jaayne. These are AI hosts - their voices are auto-generated, reading content created by Danny Brown, host of One Minute Podcast Tips and 5 Random Questions.

If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favourite podcast app!

Please let your friends know they can listen for free on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, as well as their preferred podcast app, or online at Be a Better Podcaster.

In this episode, we take a look at the evolving landscape of podcast exclusivity, a trend that has taken the industry by storm. This includes how major platforms are competing fiercely for exclusive content, echoing the earlier transitions seen in the television industry from cable to streaming services.

We also explore Spotify's aggressive acquisition strategy and their staggering investments, including the $200 million deal for Joe Rogan and the billion-dollar commitment to becoming a dominant player in the podcasting space.

This spending spree raises questions about the long-term sustainability of such a model and whether it will truly benefit creators and audiences alike.

Takeaways:

• Exclusive podcast deals are changing the landscape of the industry, similar to the transition from cable to streaming.
• Spotify's significant financial investments, including over a billion dollars, indicate their aggressive push for dominance in podcasting.
• Some creators, like the Obamas, are stepping away from exclusivity for broader audience reach and engagement.
• Listener habits are crucial in shaping the future of podcasting and platform success.
• Reports suggest that exclusive shows have seen listener drops as steep as 75%, raising concerns for Spotify.
• The podcasting showdown continues as both Spotify and Apple vie for premium content and audience engagement.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Spotify
• Netflix
• Gimlet Media
• The Ringer
• Parkhast
• Disney
• BBC
• Slate

Products Used for Be a Better Podcaster

Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.

Equipment:

• Google NotebookLM
• Hindenburg Pro
• Auphonic

Recommended resources:

• Captivate.fm
• Substack
• Boomcaster remote interviewing

Be a Better Podcaster is a tips and growth podcast brought to you by Jamie and Jaayne. These are AI hosts - their voices are auto-generated, reading content created by Danny Brown, host of One Minute Podcast Tips and 5 Random Questions.

If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favourite podcast app!

Please let your friends know they can listen for free on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, as well as their preferred podcast app, or online at Be a Better Podcaster.

What transforms a hidden gem of a podcast into a smash hit? In this episode, we delve into the critical challenges indie podcasters face: findability and fundability. These two intertwined hurdles often determine a show's success or obscurity.

We also highlight the financial barriers, such as costly award entry fees and the steep price of outsourcing, which can amount to $12,000 annually. Solutions like curated discovery on platforms like Goodpods and potential streaming models for steady income are explored.

And we emphasize the need for innovative approaches to ensure that quality content can rise to the top and reach its intended audience.

Takeaways:

• Many indie podcasters face the dual challenges of findability and fundability, crucial for success.
• Findability isn't just about being on platforms like Apple or Spotify, but about discoverability by the right listeners.
• Fundability provides resources for better production and marketing, helping podcasts become more discoverable.
• Outsourcing basics can cost indie podcasters up to $12,000 a year, highlighting financial challenges.
• Platforms like Goodpods are attempting to level the playing field for independent creators through curated discovery.
• The podcasting industry could benefit from streaming payment models similar to those used in the music industry.
• Listeners play a crucial role in supporting indie podcasts by seeking them out and sharing them with others.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Apple
• Spotify
• Goodpods
• Webby

Products Used for Be a Better Podcaster

Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link.

Equipment:

• Google NotebookLM
• Hindenburg Pro
• Auphonic

Recommended resources:

• Captivate.fm
• Substack
• Boomcaster remote interviewing

Be a Better Podcaster is a tips and growth podcast brought to you by Jamie and Jaayne. These are AI hosts - their voices are auto-generated, reading content created by Danny Brown, host of One Minute Podcast Tips and 5 Random Questions.

If you enjoy the show, we'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favourite podcast app!

Please let your friends know they can listen for free on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, as well as their preferred podcast app, or online at Be a Better Podcaster.